Being able to participate in an F1 race is a big deal for many. When the F1 race is the first night race in the world is a bigger deal. To be able to prepare and serve espresso coffee, not just in any other part of the venue, but in the most exclusive area, the Paddock Club, it is an honor and memory that will be forever etched in my mind.

On the 26 - 28 Sep 2008, I lived that dream and was given the opportunity to be part of history. I got to help train some personnel for attending to some 25 espresso machines at the Paddock Suites, and personally manned the Faema’s E61 Legend at the Paddock Club.

I finished off 2 x 3kg canisters for the event, making mostly espressos and doppios for the exclusive clients that had access to the venue. It was not surprising that most were, Americans, Italians, Australians and Chinese who had become native citizens from these countries. It speaks of the coffee culture differences between them and the local scene where most would prefer cappuccinos and cafe lattes, or americano.

To cater to these discerning guests, the standards of the espressos had to be precise. Many had high expectations of the Barista that is allowed to serve and man the coffee bar at such a venue in such a high profile event. It was a test of service, and the crew that I worked with were fabulous. Thanks to Rose Kwang, GM of Euraco, Shin, Wai Leng, Alfie who helped with ensuring the system was installed well, Lay Sing, Selene, Rohit who ensured the service rendered to the guests there were tip-top! It was team effort to see through the entire operation.

I managed to take some shots while installing the systems during the pre-race period and they show the various views from some of the suites and the more interesting suites themselves.

Within the F1 suite, you can see the sponsors on the wall

Looking to a great view of the Ferrari’s pit station

WOW!!

The BMW reception area in their suite - cool!!!

View from one of the best suites in the Paddock…from here you can see the cars coming in from the right during the actual race..

From the same spot, you can watch the car start and finish at the Singtel banner which marks the start and end point of the race.

Finally, a shot of me and the crew from AirStar, the guys who made the lights happen at the Paddock Area…Italians and they drink their espressos. At least 5-6 shots a day, based on my last count!

I will post more pics as I get them from the rest of friends who took shots of the counter during our normal routines during the day. I could not take them as I was too busy…: )