Feb.14 (GMM) Potential Singapore grand prix night race goers endured a frustrating time on Thursday, as tickets went on sale for the inaugural event.

The local New Straits Times describes the performance of Singapore's ticketing procedures as "complete chaos", as fervent ticket-buyers in some cases tried several times to book a seat - by phone, internet and in person - before giving up.

"It was absolutely frustrating and a disgrace," said one unsuccessful patron, who tried for four hours to buy tickets.

Another, who between 11am and 8pm unsuccessfully tried to buy tickets on the crashed website and by phone, wrote on the Straits Times website: "This is really a sad day for Singapore events.

"I was so intent on getting a ticket today ... what a shame/sham!".

Another wrote: "This is an absolute disgrace and the organisers should have some way to compensate those of us that were told we would be called back with tickets but were not.

"What an embarrassment for Singapore hosting this world class event, after delays in releasing tickets for sale and then this. Pitiful."