FRIDAY, March 29, 2024
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Track and a new trophy ready for PTT Thailand Grand Prix

Track and a new trophy ready for PTT Thailand Grand Prix

The winner of the PTT Thailand Grand Prix 2019 will be rewarded with new and more spectacular trophy in three weeks’ time courtesy of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Sports Authority of Thailand and other private and public entities.

Track and a new trophy ready for PTT Thailand Grand Prix
PTT Oil and Retail Business PCL (PTTOR) announced on Wednesday (September 18) that the trophy “incorporates the spirit of Thainess with MotoGP, showcasing the pride of Thai people to the rest of the world”.


The Grand Prix, billed as a world-class motorsport championship, takes place from October 4-6 at the Chang International Circuit in Buri Ram and is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of fans from around the region.


It’s the second motorcycling Grand Prix that Thailand has hosted.


The ministry, Sports Authority, Buri Ram Provincial Administration Organisation, PTTOR, Department of Land Transport, Thai Beverage, AP Honda, Thai Yamaha Motor, Siam Commercial Bank, Grab Taxi (Thailand), Plan B Media and Chang International Circuit all declared their readiness to host the event.


The trophy’s design retains a resemblance to ornate temple doors, symbolising Thailand’s warm invitation to first-time visitors.


This year it also embodies the identity of Buri Ram. The base mimics stone with the colours and texture of laterite, which was used in building Phanom Rung Stone Castle, whose likeness is carved into the MotoGP chequered pattern.


The top of the base follows the unique track outline of Chang International Circuit. Beautiful Thai numerals engraved on the trophy were inspired by Thai flowers, expressing the thrill of victory for the champion.


“Last week a team inspected the readiness of the racetrack, as well as the telecom infrastructure for land, air and rail. I can reassure everyone that Thailand is 100 per cent ready to host the MotoGP PTT Thailand Grand Prix 2019,” said Gongsak Yodmani, governor of the Sports Authority.


“To accommodate the hundreds of thousands of fans flocking to Buri Ram, we have raised standards to maximise convenience across the board. This year the airport has been revamped with improved concrete runways, additional taxiways, weapons scanning system, improved baggage handling and wheelchair ramps.


“There are no concerns over the racetrack because the management team is highly experienced in world-class motorsport events,” Gongsak said. “They listened to the feedback from fans and turned problems into solutions. I also visited the OTOP Ban Nonsawan Village Homestay in Ban Dan district, which joined in the effort to help improve accommodations for the fans. The locals are ready to welcome guests with open arms and will create a lasting friendly impression on them.”


Buri Ram Governor Teerawat Wuttikhun said its citizens will be proud to welcome the fans from around the world.


“The accommodation has been well prepared so that tourists can enjoy the highest level of convenience and comfort without difficult commutes. Food and beverages are ready and well-stocked. Transportation is one of our main priorities and we are closely communicating with the airport and a network of hotels to ensure the most comprehensive service.


“We have prepared comprehensive tourist data and distributed it in many areas. We also coordinated with the traffic police to make sure the flow will be smooth and comfortable.”


Jiraporn Khaosawas, CEO and managing director of PTTOR, said the first Grand Prix was a major success and his firm was “glad to continue” its role.


Tanaisiri Chanvittayarom, managing director of Chang International Circuit, said the track is in top condition.
“We have received advice from the Federation of International Motorcycling as well as feedback from spectators, which we applied to make improvements from the first time we hosted the race. The side stands are stronger, safer and more convenient and now offer better views of the action. I am confident that attendees will enjoy the incredible spectacle from every vantage point.”


A key highlight beyond the race itself is the entertainment booked.


Top bands including Mild and Potato will be performing at Chang Music Connection on October 4, followed the next night by the Muay Thai Expo and match-ups between Sangmanee Sathian Muaythai Gym and Rafi Singpatong, and Kularb Dum Sor Jor Piak U-Thai against Nuenglanlek Jitmuangnon. On October 6, rapper Golf F Hero will perform.


There will be more than 100 promotional booths as well.‬


A limited number of tickets including to the side stands and the Expo Zone are already on sale at all 7-Eleven stores and via ‪www.allticket.com.


Admission is Bt200 per day. With a VIP Pass or tickets to the grandstand, side stands, Rossi’s stand or Marquez’s stand, visitors can enter the Expo Zone for free.

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