Monte Carlo or bust for rally teams (From Witney Gazette)
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Monte Carlo or bust for rally teams
3:37am Saturday 26th January 2013 in National News © Press Association 2013
Monte Carlo Rally competitor Jim Meggat in his Chrysler at the start line of last year's race
A convoy of classic cars is preparing to set off on a non-stop 2,000 mile rally to Monaco.
Cars including Lancias, Triumphs and Porsches will leave Glasgow as part of the 2013 Monte Carlo Classic Rally.
It was first held in 1911 and drivers typically start in different European cities of roughly equal distance from Monte Carlo in Monaco. Organisers hope around 12,000 people will turn out at the People`s Palace to wave them off. More than 100 teams will leave from the city including entries from Australia, Malta, Czech Republic and France.
Scottish rally champion David Bogie met those taking part yesterday and wished them luck.
The 25 year old said: "These cars are certainly a little different to the modern types I drive but they are beautiful period motors and the spectators will love them. I have real respect for all those going to France. Some of these drivers might not get proper sleep for four days and the route will require concentration and skill.
"As a nation, we have a proud reputation in motorsport and this can only help enhance our global standing. I wish everyone involved all the best."
Those taking part in the rally range from serious drivers to recreational drivers hoping to enjoy a unique trip. IT consultant David Glen, 25, from Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire, will compete for the first time in a Volvo with his father Gordon.
He said: "Not many people get the chance to do this and I've been reading everything I can. Driving with family members will be challenging but we all know each other's habits so I am not anticipating too many problems."
The rally started in Glasgow regularly in previous years and started in nearby Clydebank in 2012. The cars will drive from Glasgow to a ferry at Dover and then head south over the French Alps before arriving in Monte Carlo on Tuesday if all goes to plan.
The rally was created by Prince Albert I 102 years ago in an attempt to bring wealthy car owners to the famous casinos of the French Riviera. The first race was won by Frenchman Henri Rougier in a 25 horse power Turcat-Mery.
