Covering the ARRC at Chang International Circuit in Thailand
Racing, Roads, and Rookies: My First Time Covering the ARRC at Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand
As a motorcycle photographer based in Malaysia, I've had my fair share of adventures capturing the drama and speed of two-wheel racing. But nothing could have prepared me for my first assignment covering the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand. From a long bus journey to navigating a world-class racing event, the experience was equal parts thrilling, exhausting, and downright hilarious.
So, grab a seat (preferably more comfortable than the one I had on the bus), and let me take you through my maiden voyage into the high-octane world of ARRC.
The Journey Begins: Bangkok to Buriram by Bus
The adventure started in Bangkok, where I boarded an overnight bus to Buriram. Now, when you think of traveling to cover an international racing event, you might envision flights, press lounges, and five-star accommodations. Not for this photographer. My journey began with a bus ticket, a backpack, and a questionable choice in travel snacks (instant noodles and a can of iced coffee, in case you were curious).
The bus itself was a mix of charming and chaotic. The seats reclined almost horizontally, which sounds great until you realize the person in front of you is practically in your lap. A local soap opera played loudly on the TV, with dramatic wailing sound effects punctuating every twist. Sleep was more of a suggestion than a reality.
Somewhere around hour seven, I began to question my life choices. But just as my lower back declared mutiny, we pulled into Buriram.
Welcome to Buriram: The City of Speed
Buriram is a city that loves its motorsport. The Chang International Circuit, also known as the Buriram International Circuit, is the crown jewel of the area—a modern, state-of-the-art track that hosts everything from MotoGP to the ARRC.
As I arrived at the circuit on Friday morning, the scale of the place took my breath away. The grandstands, the immaculate track, the buzzing paddock—it was clear this was a step up from the grassroots events I was used to covering.
Settling In: A Photographer’s First Day Jitters
Walking into the ARRC paddock for the first time felt a bit like being the new kid at school—exciting, but also slightly terrifying. Teams were bustling about, mechanics were fine-tuning bikes, and riders were zipping around on scooters like it was an obstacle course.
I spent the morning exploring the paddock, figuring out the best shooting spots, and trying not to trip over tire warmers or get run over by a pit bike. Everyone seemed to know exactly what they were doing, and then there was me, fumbling with my camera and looking like I’d just wandered in by accident.
The Chang International Circuit: A Photographer’s Playground
The Chang International Circuit is a dream for motorsports photographers. With its mix of long straights, sweeping corners, and tight hairpins, it offers endless opportunities to capture dramatic action shots.
Some of my favorite spots included:
Turn 3: A fast right-hander where riders lean so low it seems like their elbows might touch the ground.
Turn 12: The final corner before the straight, where last-minute overtakes and dramatic braking battles are almost guaranteed.
The Main Straight: Perfect for panning shots that capture the sheer speed of the bikes.
Race Weekend Chaos: Capturing the Action
The ARRC isn’t just about speed; it’s about fierce competition. The riders in categories like ASB1000, SS600, and AP250 don’t hold back, and the level of skill on display is mind-blowing.
Photographing the ASB1000 category was a particular highlight. The roar of the superbikes as they thundered down the straight sent chills down my spine. These riders don’t just race; they go full gas from the moment the lights go out.
The AP250 category had its own charm, with young riders battling tooth and nail for every inch of track. Their determination and fearlessness reminded me why I love covering motorsports—every frame tells a story of ambition and grit.
The Weather: A Photographer’s Frenemy
Buriram’s weather, much like its racing, is unpredictable and intense. The mornings were sweltering, with the sun beating down so hard I felt like my camera might melt. By mid-afternoon, clouds would gather ominously, and before you knew it, the heavens would open in a tropical downpour.
On Saturday, I experienced a particularly dramatic rainstorm while perched near Turn 12. One minute, I was taking panning shots of the SS600 riders; the next, I was scrambling for cover as rain came down in sheets. My rain poncho, which I’d proudly packed, decided to betray me by tearing right down the middle.
The rain added a new level of drama to the races, though. Watching the riders tackle a wet track at full speed was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Sunday: Race Day Madness
Race day at the ARRC is pure adrenaline. The grandstands filled up with fans waving flags, blowing horns, and cheering wildly for their favorite riders. The energy was infectious, and I could feel my own excitement building as the first race approached.
The ASB1000 race was a particular highlight. Watching those superbikes battle it out at breakneck speeds was a photographer’s dream. I captured shots of riders leaning so far into corners that it seemed impossible they wouldn’t slide out, only to see them power through with unmatched precision.
The podium celebrations were a flurry of champagne sprays, fist pumps, and ear-to-ear grins. It was the perfect way to cap off a weekend of incredible racing.
The Paddock: Where Stories Come to Life
One of the best parts of covering the ARRC was the paddock. It’s here that you see the human side of racing—the camaraderie, the hard work, and the occasional meltdown.
I captured shots of mechanics hunched over bikes, their faces serious as they adjusted suspension settings and replaced worn tires. Riders huddled with their teams, strategizing and reviewing data. And then there were the candid moments: a rider joking with his teammate, a mechanic sneaking a quick nap in the corner, and a team manager furiously gesticulating at a data sheet like it was a life-or-death situation.
Reflections on My First ARRC Experience
As I boarded the bus back to Bangkok (yes, I took the bus again—clearly, I hadn’t learned my lesson), I couldn’t help but reflect on the whirlwind that was my first ARRC experience.
Covering the event was a steep learning curve, but it was also one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. The Chang International Circuit is a stunning venue, the racing was top-notch, and the people I met along the way were passionate and welcoming.
Sure, the weather tested my patience, and my legs were sore from running around the track all weekend. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
For a rookie photographer at the ARRC, it was a baptism by fire (and rain). And I can’t wait to do it all over again.
