The annual Chinese New Year (CNY) motorcycle and classic car parade took place yesterday, featuring 24 motorcycles and 32 classic cars, starting from the Macau Grand Prix (MPG) Building, travelling through the Macau peninsula and Cotai, and returning to the peninsula, ending in front of the Macau Science Centre in Nape for public display.
The one-day event was co-organised by the Sports Bureau (ID) and Automobile General Association of Macao-China (AAMC).
Macau Vintage Vehicle Culture Association (MVV) Chairman Lam Chung In told reporters on the sidelines of yesterday’s parade that his group has documented around 1,700 classic vehicles in Macau that are at least 25 years old, dating back to before 2000, adding that around 80 percent of the classic cars are still roadworthy. His association also regularly organises activities such as classic car parades, aiming to share the joy of driving classic cars with residents and tourists, promoting Macau’s unique classic car culture, Lam said.
Lam showcased one of his prized collection during yesterday’s event: a 1978 Chevrolet Camaro from US, the only one of its kind in Macau, Lam said, adding that he acquired the vehicle in 2010 and has overseen its meticulous restoration over several years. He pointed out that his car is a second-generation prototype of the legendary “Bumblebee”. Lam said that the car’s vibrant colour and its appearance in the eponymous film has made it a significant attraction for tourists and residents alike.
While sourcing parts for maintaining his Bumblebee is not particularly difficult, the restoration process proved highly challenging, such as lacking modern computer components and relying heavily on manual mechanics skills, Lam added.
Sports Bureau (ID) Development Department Chief Chao Kuok Wai told reporters during yesterday’s parade that although the classic cars displayed yesterday look old, they perform “excellently”, holding strong appeal for both locals and visitors, adding that the annual CNY recreational event, held for several years now, has established itself as a distinctive attraction and signature activity in Macau.
All CNY events in the series attract active participation from many residents and sports enthusiasts, Chao said, adding that the Sports Bureau will continue organising similar festive sport and recreational activities throughout the remaining days of the 15-day CNY period, aiming to celebrate the holiday with the community and further promote the concept of universal sport participation.
Macau Vintage Vehicle Culture Association (MVV) Chairman Lam Chung In poses with his classic car on the sidelines of Chinese New Year (CNY) motorcycle and classic car parade outside the Macau Science Centre (MSC) in Nape yesterday. – Photos: Ida Cheong
Sports Bureau (ID) Development Department Chief Chao Kuok Wai speaks to reporters outside the Macau Science Centre (MSC) in Nape about yesterday’s motorcycle and classic car parade.
Participating cars and motorbikes set off from the Macau Grand Prix (MPG) Building yesterday.
