A Saturday which went in the history books when Formula One cars ran for positions in India for the first time.
The day started with people pouring in more numbers at Buddha International Circuit (BIC) than Friday. The circuit no matter how many dogs and cows gatecrash is an achievement for Indians and Jaypee Group. The amount of work that has gone in to erect a premises of this scale is commendable.
Though the circuit is almost 80km from Delhi Central District, yet the transport was taken care of by the organisers and Delhi Metro in halfs. The reach is the majestic Yamuna Expressway and the entrance is grand.
The first thing which catches your eye is the GrandStand which by any means is HUGE. The floating roof reminds you of Sepang but then we are talking of a private effort with loads full of money spent. We’ll have to let go of its architectural repetitiveness.
The circuit has been divided into 4 zones – North/West/South/East. The main grandstand and merchandise retail stands on the West side (facing east, so that the setting sun does not hurt the heavily paying spectator)
The other stands are a mix of natural (man made podium hill) and classic stands (without roofs). Although it sounds demanding, but Delhi in October is not that hot.
Shuttle buses ply through the periphery of the circuit which makes internal navigation quite easy and the staff is well equipped with security and intellectual assets (the latter being more important)
Each zone has its dedicated Lavetories and F&B sections. Cleanliness is ensured and service upto standards.
I was particularly impressed by the attention to spectator convenience. The stairs/entry/exit to each block of each zone was properly aligned. At no point were these crowded and had awesome view of the track.
The track itself has been rated one of the best. German Hermann Tilke desinged it and the best aspect are the elevation changes. The start finish straight turns right into a climbing turn 2-3 which is the best place to sit and watch the action live (apart from the GrandStand)
BIC has lived upto its expectations and the small hassles can be deservedly neglected. After the inaugural Indian GP and future plans to bring MotoGP, BIC has a bright future ahead. This place looks set as a major contender for Motorsporting action in this part of Asia. Sepang and Abu Dhabi have gotten a major rival in the neighborhood.
The big question will be : How many of us turn up year after year to justify the money, time and pride spent to build and host motorsports in India.
