The opening race of 2008 in Melbourne was a good indicator for the season to come. Hamilton led from pole position thereby avoiding the first lap chaos involving five cars including local hero Mark Webber. The BMW Sauber of Kubica was fast in qualifying and from second on the grid he pushed Hamilton for much of the race. Both Ferraris retired but not before a coming together for Massa and a couple of trips into the gravel for Raikkonen and the safety car was deployed on three occasions. Such was the rate of attrition that only seven cars finished the race.
In 2009 the race will start at a very civilised 5pm local time. It’s the perfect excuse to party late on Saturday in the many bars and restaurants downtown and along the Yarra River and enjoy a lazy Sunday morning before making your way to Albert Park for the day’s events. Party and sport is what Melbourne does best although there’s no shortage of sights to see in and around the city. The free hop on, hop off city circle tram is an excellent way to get around, you can visit the hallowed Melbourne Cricket Ground, dive with sharks at the Aquarium or take excursions to visit the goldfields, wineries and the world’s smallest penguins on Philip Island.
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