GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s Esplanade became an exciting mini-racetrack over the weekend when the adrenaline-pumping action GO Penang International 2010 go-kart race made a comeback after 30 years.

In a thrilling 20-lap final on Sunday, building contractor Teoh Boon Teong, 37, grabbed the coveted trophy.

“I’ve been racing for five years now, and I am hooked on the adrenaline rush I get when zooming around at high speeds,” he said.

Having previously won several minor competitions back in his hometown of Alor Setar, Teoh felt the experience gained gave him an edge over his rivals.

“Even so, I was quite nervous before the race started. But I kept pushing myself, and am very glad to have won here,” Teoh added.

In second to fifth places respectively were Hoo Khon Eong, Low Kok Teng, Tan Hai Liang and Tan Boon Yew, who received their prizes from state Tourism Development and Culture Committee chairman Danny Law Heng Kiang.

The go-kart race had its temporary racetrack encircling the Penang City Hall, courthouse and Dewan Sri Pinang.

After the finals, about 200 racing enthusiasts from among the public were also given a chance to race the karts.

The three-day GO Penang International 2010 was jointly organised by the state Tourism Development and Culture Committee as well as ROOTS Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd.

It also featured a food bazaar with more than 50 stalls selling international and local cuisine, live band performances, drawing and colouring contests, and spot games.

There was also a first-ever Miss Umbrella Girl 2010 beauty pageant, with student Aemilia Teoh, 19, emerging winner.

Race winner Teoh (second from left) is flanked by (from left) third placed Low Kok Teng, second placed Hoo Khon Eong and Tan Hai Liang who came fourth.

The Star Online

By JEREMY TAN

Monday March 15, 2010