46 replies to this topic

[Janzen]

Hi everyone,

It seems I might have the chance of attending the Montreal race. It is also my first grand prix
Can anyone give general info. How to get to the track the best way? Off track activities ?
How much can you move around the track.
What to bring to the race, I will bring my camera for sure.

How valuable is Friday as a spectator, I might have to skip it due to travel time and problems getting off work.

Any info will be appreciated.
thanks

[effone2k]

Originally posted by Janzen
Hi everyone,

It seems I might have the chance of attending the Montreal race. It is also my first grand prix
Can anyone give general info. How to get to the track the best way? Off track activities ?
How much can you move around the track.
What to bring to the race, I will bring my camera for sure.

How valuable is Friday as a spectator, I might have to skip it due to travel time and problems getting off work.

Any info will be appreciated.
thanks

The best way and pretty much only way to the circuit is by the city's Metro (subway) system. Advice: buy 8-10 subway tickets on Friday so you don't stand in ticket lines the rest of the weekend). Exit at Ile Ste. Helene and follow the crowd to the ticket turnstiles.

Off track activities: Casino is at the circuit otherwise downtown Montreal. There is usually a lot of F1 related activities around McGill University. Don't go to Newtown (Jacques V's club)-many (pissed off) people got turned away even with advanced reservations because it is invitation only, private party on race weekend.

You can move around the track but the access fences to the track are lined with people when the F1 cars are on the track. There is no open seating on Friday/Saturday in the grandstands-arrive to the stands no later than 1/2 hr before F1 on track activities to avoid climbing over people.

Coolers are allowed at the track. Bring a poncho or rain suit if the weather turns. Sunscreen is recommended. Earplugs??? I don't, but bring and decide for yourself!!!!

Friday has 2-2 1/2 hrs. of F1 on track activities. The rest is support races: Formula Atlantics, Ferrari Challenge, etc.

Hope you have a great time!!!

[effone2k]

There is usually a lot of F1 related activities around McGill University.

I forgot to add that the heart of this F1 activity is Crescent Street.

Some of the posters on this site are planning a visit to Gilles V's museum in Berthierville. Check some of the recent posts if you are interested in attending.

[Eau Red]

Originally posted by Janzen

How much can you move around the track.

you can't get into any grandstands except where your ticket is, but there are general admission seats on the grass at certain places. You can walk around the whole track, but you can't see the track most of the time. The walk is still worthwhile, though... from various points you will be able to see (& hear) the cars going into a bunch of different corners. And at the start/finish, at the end of Friday practice, you can see the cars do practice starts. Friday is definitely worthwhile if you can make it... less crowded, lots of time to see the cars going around, and a good chance to decide where you want to be for qualifying and the race. As for ear plugs... might as well bring them, they're $20 or something if you decide you want to buy them at the race. See you there... i'll be the guy in the red hat.

[MONTOYASPEED]

Originally posted by Eau Red
As for ear plugs... might as well bring them, they're $20 or something if you decide you want to buy them at the race. See you there... i'll be the guy in the red hat.

WTF!?!?!?! Ear plugs!?!?!?! You're able to hear such a melody and you use ear plugs?!?!?!?!

[Mrv]

I agree. You don't go to a Live F1 race with EARPLUGS!!!! Experience the sound to it's fullest.

[keyser soze]

Originally posted by Janzen


How valuable is Friday as a spectator, I might have to skip it due to travel time and problems getting off work.

[/B]

Call in sick, drive Thursday night you should see Fri practice. If your in Gold 1 you get to see all the practice starts from p1 at the end of each session.

[Williams]

Originally posted by Mrv
I agree. You don't go to a Live F1 race with EARPLUGS!!!! Experience the sound to it's fullest.

Seated close to the track, sound levels can get loud enough to damage your hearing. At the very least, take earplugs to give yourself the option of using them. And them buy before you get to the track, as the price for earplugs increases exponentially (OK I exaggerate slightly) as you get closer to the track.

[F1Rulz]

Originally posted by Williams
Seated close to the track, sound levels can get loud enough to damage your hearing. At the very least, take earplugs to give yourself the option of using them. And them buy before you get to the track, as the price for earplugs increases exponentially (OK I exaggerate slightly) as you get closer to the track.

I would agree. Bring some ear plugs. I've been to Indy (2) and Montreal (2001). I did use them quite a bit my 1st time out at Indy. Especially down the front straight (echo). Last year I didn't use them as much. Same in Montreal. However we were seated in about the 20th row of GS11 not bad on the ears. On Friday I moved down toward the rail and the sound was penetrating and I put them in. I’d go to your local Hardware store and get the kind that have a headband. You can hang them around your neck when not using them. For more info on Montreal search the GP Traveling forum on Montreal or Canada and there should be more than enough info there. And I would defiantly suggest going all 3 days. The atmosphere is intoxicating

[Eau Red]

the need for ear plugs varies a lot by where you're sitting. if you're on a fast straight and close to the track, as Williams said, you'll have a splitting headache after 25 minutes. when your head hurts, that's your pain receptors trying to tell you something. most track marshals wear ear plugs, and they're the guys who love the sport enough to put themselves at risk during the race.

on the other hand, at a slow corner, you won't need ear plugs at all (unless you hate the sound of traction control).

[Janzen]

Thanks for these great inputs, I am sure this will be something to remember.

[The Quiet One]

I need some help. I am able to get the time off to go the the GP in Montreal. I need help getting tickets. Where do I get them. I was wondering about grandstand tickets but I checked on F1-live and they are sold out. Any other suggestions ???

[F1Rulz]

Call the circuit first and see what they have. If you are by yourself then there maybe a snowballs chance that you could get a seat in 11, 12, 21, 24, or 15 (considered the best locations by most). If that doesn't fit your needs someone like Page and Moy have a ticket only service (there are others... I guess if you can't find them ask and I'll post the others I know of). GP Tours possibly might have a ticket(s) but they sell them very last minute (cutting losses I guess) so I wouldn't count on that. Search the GP Traveling forum for other Montreal info e.g. places to stay things to do etc.

[The Quiet One]

Thank you for your reply. I found the tickets on the site you suggested and on the canadian grandprix site. If any one has been to the race. Which is better Silver 16 or 21 ??

[The Quiet One]

I have one more question. What about general admission tickets. Can you see any part of the race not on the screen ? Has anyone gone and what has been your experience ?

[maxpapis]

This guy has a good deal on tickets

[Bogman]

official tickets still available from www.grandprix.ca

[F1Rulz]

Originally posted by The Quiet One
Thank you for your reply. I found the tickets on the site you suggested and on the canadian grandprix site. If any one has been to the race. Which is better Silver 16 or 21 ??

I'd go for 21 over 16 (I'm in 24 this year). 16 is on the front straight and I don't think you will get the best view (sure you can see the pits etc.) but I would rather have/see the cars under more divers conditions. In 21 you'll get hard braking, hairpin, and acceleration out. Also this location will probably yield the best location for passing. Good Luck. Like I said search on Montreal or Canadian GP and you'll find loads of info.

[The Quiet One]

I missed my opportunity to get the silver tickets. I was wondering if anyone had a chance to buy tickets at the gp from "interested sellers" aka scalpers. Can you get a good deal for 2 seats ?

[F1Rulz]

I saw scalpers buying and selling tickets from Saturday on. So they are available. I'm not sure about the price though. Prices I expect would vary based on location and amount of time left till the lights go out. Good Luck.

[effone2k]

Originally posted by The Quiet One
I have one more question. What about general admission tickets. Can you see any part of the race not on the screen ? Has anyone gone and what has been your experience ?

If you purchase general admission, get there early on Sunday. It is usually 10-15 deep at areas around the circuit. Last year, they started covering fences with tarps to eliminate crowds at these sections. An excellent spot is the area between grandstands 15 and 24 by the steps that lead to the Olympic rowing basin. This is also a great spot to photograph the drivers exiting the hairpin.

Good luck and enjoy the race

[The Quiet One]

Anyone know a nice hotel close to the downtown and not far from the VIA station. I am looking to spend 100-150 C$ per night for 2 people ??? I am arriving by train and want to see parts of Montreal at night and get to the GP ASAP in the morning.

[UStifosi]

I have been going to the GP for about 10 years but haven't taken the metro back and forth to downtown for some time. For those in the know, how long can I expect to wait for a train leaving the island? I know how long it takes to walk off the island to get a taxi!

[Timur]

Originally posted by The Quiet One
Anyone know a nice hotel close to the downtown and not far from the VIA station. I am looking to spend 100-150 C$ per night for 2 people ??? I am arriving by train and want to see parts of Montreal at night and get to the GP ASAP in the morning.

Try Hotel du Nouveau Forum http://www.nouveau-forum.com -- they may have something left for the GP weekend. They require four night reservation.

[mel]

Hi, this is off topic a bit.

I'm dragging my boyfriend along with me to Montreal and he's concerned that he might miss out on some World Cup soccer. Does anyone in canada know if it will be shown on TV there?

-mel

[Bogman]

Mel...yes, World Cup soccer is big in Canada, and many games will be shown on TSN (The Sports Network --- in English) or RDS (Reseau des Sports --- in French). Many bars will be showing the footie...guaranteed to be on TV at Peel Pub (corner Ste. Catherine and Peel...but its a bit of a drinking hole but the games will likely be shown in english), Cage aux Sports (sports bar, several locations including downtown on Rene Levesque, but they often have french coverage). Several of the Irish pubs will most likely have it on too...try McKibbens on Bishop St. Or, just stay in the hotel room...it will certainly be on, but there may be some time delays. Check out the TSN web site at www.tsn.ca

USTifosi. You're a Tifosi, but seeing as I'm a nice guy I'll help you out anyways, Forget the metro. Leaving the race it is a nightmare. If you are going back downtown, then there is a very underutilized ferry that takes you directly to Old Montreal. Walk in the direction of the Metro stop after teh race, but keep going past it...on the north side of the island there is a ferry terminal (very small). I think it costs $3.50 each way. last year after the race I was back home in less that 45 minutes (I live in Old Montreal). Find a map to scout out the exact location of the ferry terminal. Getting to the track is easier in the morning because there is a stagger in people arriving.

[mel]

Cheers Bogman

[F1Rulz]

Originally posted by Bogman
Getting to the track is easier in the morning because there is a stagger in people arriving.

Is that a stagger of people or Staggering people?

[Bogman]

F1 Rulz....a bit of both actually....I plan to be one of the staggerers!

Actually, a personal rule is that you can't crack your first beer until the first F1 car is on circuit. So I only stagger back form the events.

Bring on June 7!!!

[UStifosi]

Bogman,

Thanks for the info on the ferry. I've heard of it the last few years but never bothered to look further into it. Does it run FRI-SAT-SUN? What is the frequency of trips after the race? Is there a schedule? I looked on the web and didn't find anything except a detailed map of the shipyard.

[F1Rulz]

All I want to know is that the weather is going to get better...

http://www.weather.c...Montreal_QC.htm

[cheesy poofs]

Hi UStifosi,

Regarding the ferry...this might help you out !

Ferry schedule

[mel]

So, imagine you are arriving at Dorval airport and your B&B is in Montreal West, would you get a bus or a taxi fom the airport?;)

[Andy]

Originally posted by mel
So, imagine you are arriving at Dorval airport and your B&B is in Montreal West, would you get a bus or a taxi fom the airport?;)

You could try a bus but for all the confusion and bus changes, etc. I'd go for the taxi, it should be about a 15 minute ride and about $20.00.;) (Or you might call Andy for a ride 'cause his office is 5 minutes from the airport...);)

Mel, you're boyfriend is coming to? This is gonna be quite the party!

Just a reminder to all, especially newbies here at Atlas, I will be posting a complete "guide" to the Canadian GP weekend in the RC forum within the next week. In case you somehow miss that, we'll all be meeting at the Hard Rock Café on Crescent Street Thurs, Fri & Sat!

See ya there!;)

[maxpapis]

Originally posted by Andy
(Or you might call Andy for a ride 'cause his office is 5 minutes from the airport...);)

Uh hello.....
I am arriving Thursday at 12:16 pm.
I'll be waiting.

Jackman and SoulStealer come in right after me followed by FucF1.
You should be a busy little guy. Don't worry we will tip well.

[Andy]

Originally posted by maxpapis

Uh hello.....
I am arriving Thursday at 12:16 pm.
I'll be waiting.

Jackman and SoulStealer come in right after me followed by FucF1.
You should be a busy little guy. Don't worry we will tip well.

ANDY LIMO RATES:

• Airport - Downtown: $20.00 pp + excess baggage surcharge (for those with more than 1 purse... Cathy! ) + tip
• Airport - Montreal West: $15.00pp + tip

NOTE: All rates may be waived in lieu of payment by beer! Hey, a guy's gotta make a living somehow! ;)
Touriste? Ah viens avec moi, ça sera pas cher...;)

[Berner]

Andy, we leave Dedmonton on June 01 for Montreal, via T.O. and Ottawa. Make sure you post the sched before then! Happy Vic Day weekend. Or is that DDO Day in Qc???

[dick]

What's the weather been like. Cold as hell here in Chicago. I hope it's HOT like in '99.

[Andy]

Originally posted by dick
What's the weather been like. Cold as hell here in Chicago. I hope it's HOT like in '99.

Cold as hell here too! Calling for frost tonight! : Hopefully it warms up by GP time or dem Molson gorls are gonna be mighty chilly!

Berner - Happy "Fête du Dollard" to you too man!

[maxpapis]

Originally posted by Andy
Touriste? Ah viens avec moi, ça sera pas cher...;)

Est ce ce que vous dites maintenant
I know enough French to get me in trouble

[Andy]

I hope you have a phrase book with you! ;)

[maxpapis]

Originally posted by Andy
I hope you have a phrase book with you! ;)

Damn Altavista

[Andy]

English Canadian GP thread just for Cathy!;)

http://www.atlasf1.c...&threadid=42494

[mel]

Cathy, Andy,

We're arriving Thursday 12.55! How big is your car Andy?

-mel

[Andy]

Originally posted by mel
Cathy, Andy,

We're arriving Thursday 12.55! How big is your car Andy?

-mel

Getting smaller by the day! Now I'm just waiting for Cathy to yell "Shotgun"!!

[maxpapis]

Cool Mel... I can't imagine we are on the same flight as I am coming from Atlanta.
What airline ? I'm on Delta.

Andy.... I would yell shotgun but does the passanger side have an airbag ?

[paulb]

From Jordan GP site:

Fancy a trip to Montreal?
Jordan Grand Prix has a few spare rooms booked in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Montreal, where most of the team will be staying for the Canadian Grand Prix. If you're going to the Grand Prix but haven't yet sorted out any accomodation, or a last minute trip to Montreal takes your fancy, you can book one of Jordan's spare rooms from 5 to 10 June, for $545 CDN per night, by contacting michaela.stachini@jordanformula1.com.