Macau is in pole position to flex muscle with the running of two major sporting events of a different kind - each of marathon proportions.
From November 18-21, 2010, the popular Asian centre will rev up a gear or two along the roads of the peninsula's waterfront for the 57th annual Macau Grand Prix.
Two weekends later, on Sunday, December 5, the streets of the peninsula and island Taipa will again be a sea of colour with the running of the 29th annual Macau International Marathon which will start and end at the main stadium.
"It will be a busy time for sports fans," said Helen Wong, General Manager of the Macau Government Tourist Office (Australia and New Zealand). "On one hand we have the motor racing, a long-time event with the names of famous drivers and riders on the winning list," she said. "And two weeks later, around 600 athletes will compete in the marathon, a vast majority from overseas countries, some from Australia and New Zealand."
The Macau Grand Prix presents a spectacular line-up of drivers and their racing machines in three headline races in an action-packed weekend of motorsport.
It will feature past and present champions as well as some of the world's brightest young prospects. The Formula 3 Macau Grand Prix is the official FIA Formula 3 Intercontinental Cup and considered the most coveted title in the category.
The Guia street circuit will also host the 44th edition of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix, billed as one of the world's most awe-inspiring street races. For the sixth successive year, the FIA World Touring Car Championship - Guia Race of Macau - will be the grand final of the season's racing.
Names of drivers to have hoisted the winner's cup in Formula 3 include Australians Kevin Bartlett, Vern Schuppan and David Brabham along with eventual Formula One champions Michael Schumacher and brother Ralf, David Coulthard, Ricardo Patrese and the late Ayrton Senna.
The 42km-long Macau Marathon, sponsored by Macau Galaxy Entertainment, will pit the cream of Asian athletes with all comers from around the globe.
"Supporters will not only get to see the athletes in action, but experience the best of Macau," said Helen Wong. "From the fabulous Macanese cuisine to the many sites that are UNESCO World Heritage listed such as the Ruins of St Paul's and A-Ma Temple, Macau has plenty to offer the sightseeing sports guests."
Details: Macau Government Tourist Office, phone (02) 9264 1488, www.macautourism.gov.mo
