RECORD-BREAKING GENERATIONS RALLY MAKES HISTORY

  • Third running of inspirational event attracts biggest entry yet
  • Victorious all-female crew – a Rally the Globe first
  • Three days of epic action and four-wheeled family fun 
  • 2025 Generations Rally confirmed for Harrogate

The third running of Rally the Globe’s award-winning Generations Rally proved every bit as popular and successful as the two previous editions of what is an innovative and inspirational event established specifically to spread the passion for historic motorsport to a younger age group.

What’s more, last weekend’s efficacious escapade made history not only with the biggest entry ever experienced to date for a Rally the Globe fixture but also with an all-female crew taking top honours for the very first time in the club’s history.

After highly-acclaimed forerunners set in the Lake District and on the edge of the North Pennines, for 2024 the much-loved Generations Rally – now with enthusiastic support from Classic Insurance Services – was based further south at the Carden Park Hotel & Spa set in the heart of the Cheshire countryside.

The compact single hotel, three-day schedule was in total contrast to Rally the Globe’s two previous Marathon style adventures which had seen participants traversing the Great Outdoors of the North American continent and exploring the Oriental wonders of South East Asia.

The much-admired Generations Rally format, though, is well-conceived and designed to encourage newcomers by making participation as simple as possible… and it is a proven winner. This year’s entry was not just over-subscribed but also, as hoped, the massive line-up of evocative cars were all crewed by members of two distinct generations – many from the same family.

The eye-catching array of 90 pre-1986 cars taking the start ranged from a battalion of Bentleys from the 1920s right up to more modern classics from the 1980s such as a Range Rover, Ford Capri, Mini Mayfair plus a phalanx of Porsche 911s. With an intriguing mix of Aston Martins, Frazer Nashes, Jaguars, MGs, Rileys, Triumphs and Volvos filling the years in between, there really was an eclectic mix of magical machinery spiced up further by a few rarities such as a Bristol 405, Fiat Dino Coupe and even a Morris Ital.

Following the completion of technical scrutineering and pre-event paperwork exchanges on Friday morning, the first cars were flagged away from a sunny, if chilly, Carden Park at 12:45 with participants heading towards the opening two Tests held at the Oulton Park circuit. Two Regularities followed as well as a return to Oulton Park and a final closed roads section in the perfectly manicured grounds of Carden Hall.

As the dust settled, Graham Goodwin navigated by his daughter’s boyfriend Tommy Stevenson led the Pre-War class aboard the former’s #3 1925 Bentley Supersports while father and son team of Roger and Leigh Powley headed the Classic category in their #76 1972 Porsche 911 E.

After what had been designed as a gentle introduction to the enjoyments of endurance rallying, by Saturday crews were considered qualified enough to tackle five trickier Regularities and two Tests along an epic 173-mile route across the Welsh border which included a spectacular lap of the Berwyn Mountains and a trip to the Eryri Snowdonia National Park. The weather added further to the challenge with a typically springtime mix of sunshine, heavy showers, and brief but bruising hailstorms.

When the intrepid crews returned to base for a well-deserved dinner on Saturday evening, the pair of Powleys still led among the Classics with the #26 1938 Triumph Dolomite expertly driven by Charlotte de Montmorency with her aunt Philippa Bailey on the maps was now ahead of the big Bentleys among the Pre-War contenders.

Ensuring an early finish with time for prize-giving in the afternoon and for UK based entrants to travel home, Sunday’s shorter 95-mile route included four further Tests and three Regularities.

After some serious number-crunching, the final results were declared with just two seconds between the top two crews in both major categories, thus underlining just how closely-contested the rally had been.

Making Rally the Globe history with top honours among the Pre-War contenders, de Montmorency and Bailey held off the fast finishing #4 1926 Bentley Supersports of father and daughter Nick and Jess Sleep with the erstwhile leaders Goodwin and Stevensen ensuring there were two Bentleys in the top three.

“We’ve had class wins before but this is our first overall and it’s a big first for me and a big first for Charlotte,” enthused a champagne-drenched Bailey. “It’s been such a beautifully run event. We didn’t do anything remarkable; we were consistent and we kept it steady and simple. We didn’t overcomplicate anything and tried to have a laugh along the way.”

In the equally fiercely-fought Classic class, the Powleys were pipped at the post by the rival #77 1972 Porsche 911 of Jack and Simon Brien with the #47 Triumph TR4 of Tomasz and Michal Dzitko finishing third to complete a father and sons podium.

Simon Brien is no stranger to champagne but was equally delighted with his result. “This is great for us; we won the Carrera Riviera last year which was a real highlight but this one is also special. It was short and sharp but very enjoyable. Jack’s navigation was pretty handy, too, and we were on it during the Tests where we split the driving.” “It’s been a great weekend,” confirmed son Jack.

Adding to the celebrations, two discretionary awards were also presented. The ‘Spirit of the Rally’ trophy went to Wendy O’Donohoe who embraced the generations concept by bringing her large, multi-generational motorsport family to the event while the ‘Against All Odds’ accolade was given to George and Angus Johnson. Their plucky little 750cc Austin 7 Ulster was the smallest car in the event and battled bravely to keep up with the big-hearted crowds around them.

The ‘Spirit of the Rally’ award was presented enthusiastically by those at Classic Insurance Services who really appreciated their involvement in the event.

“We had a brilliant weekend!” confirmed Carole Pearson, Head of Classic Insurance Services. “It was great to see the thrill and excitement that each of the crews experienced on the rally in their fantastic cars. As a leading Private Client insurer, we are dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of these vehicles and securing them for future generations – values shared by everyone on the rally and particularly demonstrated by the winner of the Classic Insurance Services sponsored award ‘Spirit of the Rally’.

After such a record-breaking weekend, it was no surprise to find Rally the Globe’s delighted Rally Director, Fred Gallagher, in high spirits as he welcomed crews back to the Carden Park Hotel and received numerous plaudits from delighted participants.

“In three short years, we’ve built something of a must-do event,” admitted Gallagher. “As well as the fantastic competitors who bring themselves and their remarkable cars, I’d like to thank the entire Rally the Globe team, for their efforts. Mark Appleton and Anthony Preston for finding the roads and Brynmor Pierce, the Chief Marshal, for putting together the superb team of volunteers who timed our every move.”

Once again, as Clerk of the Course, the unflappable Appleton had overseen another trouble-free event and he was understandably delighted with the super-successful sporting side of the weekend. “We’ve had an epic route, some challenging weather and some testing competition but everyone has thrown themselves into it and had a great time as a result,” he reported. “It’s especially good to see the next generation of enthusiasts coming through the ranks. There was a waiting list for this rally and we’ve already had a lot of interest in next year’s edition that will be based in Harrogate.”

In the meantime, the Rally the Globe team has three more standout events lined up for the remainder of the year. Next up is the Vintage Shamrock (6-9 May) which is organised in partnership with Irish Racing Green. Two continental ventures then swiftly follow: Carrera Bavaria (16-26 June) and Austria to Athens Challenge (29 September – 13 October).

Rally the Globe’s next endurance style event has been confirmed as the Islands of Japan Marathon (pencilled in for 24 September – 21 October 2025). While the Generations Rally was fully-subscribed, a limited number of entries are still available for other forthcoming events.

ROVER RULES ON RALLY THE GLOBE’S EPIC ROAD TO HANOI MARATHON

  • British saloon scores surprise win in awesome South East Asian adventure
  • Chevrolet Fangio takes top honours in Pre-War category
  • Awe-inspiring journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos
  • Four more outstanding events to follow in 2024

In a spectacular start to 2024, Rally the Globe’s first ever driving adventure in the Far East – the Road to Hanoi Marathon (27 January to 23 February) – was an incredible journey of discovery through the byways of Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos. It was also the not-for-profit club’s second consecutive ‘Marathon’ category event following swiftly after its super-successful Alaska to Mexico foray into North America.

Set 8,000 miles apart on opposite sides of the Pacific Ocean, both escapades were long-distance driving journeys with the emphasis on endurance and exploration, during which participants faced an inspiring mix of challenging on- and off-road sections.

While similarly awesome in concept, both were very different in terms of geography, ethnicity, climate, character and cuisine. And both produced four very different category winners. While Fords had ruled in their US fatherland, in Asia the spoils were shared between triumphant crews aboard Chevrolet Fangio and Rover P6 entries ­­– the latter a rare rallying success for the one time bastion of deluxe motoring for the British middle classes.

The action started from Ho Chi Minh City – aka Saigon – with the first few days spent traversing southern Vietnam before crews headed into Cambodia and crossed the mighty Mekong River. The 4,300 mile (6,900km) route then pressed northwards into Thailand before entering Laos and eventually returning to the Ho Chi Minh Trail and mountains of northern Vietnam en route to the finish, nearly four weeks later, in historic Hanoi.

Rewarding both driving and navigational skills, the intrepid itinerary included around 40 Regularity Sections on quiet minor roads – some of which were loose-surface – plus 15 Speed Tests at venues such as race tracks, sports stadia and roads specially closed for the purpose by the local police.

Moreover, six well-chosen rest days provided participants not only with the chance to make running repairs to their cars but also for sight-seeing excursions to must-see tourist attractions such as the Angkor Wat temple complex and Ha Long Bay, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With so much ahead to savour, an excited field of 26 entries, representing no fewer than 10 nationalities, took the start. In age, the cars ranged from a 1929 Chrysler 75 Roadster to a Porsche 911 and Mercedes Benz 350 SL from 1974. In between were five Mercedes-Benzes, a trio of both Bentleys and Volvos plus a pair of Ford Escorts while a Jaguar Mk2, Ford Mustang Convertible and Fiat 124 Spider all added to the eclectic mix.

Manuel and Irene Dubs, winners of the Pre-War category in the Alaska to Mexico Marathon, had swapped their victorious Ford Coupe for a distinctive 1932 Rockne Six 75. An early gearbox failure, though, robbed them of any hopes of a back-to-back win.

The unfortunate demise of the Studebaker produced American machine handed the early advantage to Swiss speedsters Daniel Sauter and Martin Reubel in their 1938 Chevrolet Fangio; they were hotly pursued by Keith and Norah Ashworth aboard their 1927 Bentley 4½ Le Mans and Nigel Dowding and Mary Antcliff in their 1934 Aston Martin Mark II.

By the end of the first week, however, the plucky 1495cc Aston had surpassed its far bigger engined rivals and the little giant-killer seemed on target for an heroic triumph until it shed a rear wheel with the finish almost in sight. Its retirement gave the Chevrolet – now co-driven by Severin Senn – a clear run to the finish.

“It’s really been a fantastic journey and an amazing event,” enthused a delighted Sauter. “I like these marathon events – I like to drive long and fast. The organisation has been first class and the spirit among all the competitors has been great; we’ve met new people and made new friends and had a lot of fun together. This definitely won’t be my last such rally with RtG.”

The battle in the classic category was even closer and although the Rover P6, expertly crewed by Peter and Louise Morton, always seemed in control at the front, podium battles raged throughout.

Having eschewed one of their normal Bentleys for a pacier 1973 Porsche 911, Graham and Marina Goodwin finally finished second after fending off the 1961 Volvo PV544 of Nigel and Sally Woof. Alaska to Mexico category winners Ean and Alison Lewin had to settle for fifth place in their now very well-travelled 1973 Ford Escort RS1600.

“Weve had an accurate trip meter, a reliable car and a big dose of luck which have all played their part,” acknowledged Peter Morton who defied expectations in the P6. “Everyone said we were mad to have a Rover as they break down, but my dad had one and I wanted to persist. The car was incredible… as was the organisation and the camaraderie amongst the competitors. Its been a great event with plenty of rest days in some lovely places, the sort of places you really wouldnt want to just drive through.”

The hard-working Rally the Globe team was equally pleased to have further enhanced its world class reputation having overcome considerable obstacles to stage yet another highly acclaimed driving adventure.

“The Road to Hanoi has been rescheduled twice thanks to COVID and unrest in Myanmar but, after the last four weeks on the road, I think that we can say it was worth the wait,” proclaimed Rally Director Fred Gallagher, who also praised all the efforts of the entire Rally the Globe team and its travel partners on the ground. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed myself and its clear that everyone else has too!”

Clerk of the Course Mark Appleton was equally effusive thanking all those responsible for putting together such a memorable route and the spirit in which the competitive elements were tackled by the crews. “There have been some long days and some challenging roads but I think that South East Asia was a great place to stage a marathon event,” surmised Appleton.

In addition to the overall and class trophies, a pair of notable discretionary awards were also presented at the prizegiving in Hanoi. The Spirit of the Rally award was scooped by two newcomers to the world of endurance rallying, Clive Hopkins and Charles Gooch, for wholeheartedly throwing themselves into the event in their brightly coloured Ford Mustang. The Against all Odds trophy was taken by Enrico Paggi and Federica Mascetti who battled back from three blown head gaskets and a melted piston in their Fiat Spider to make the finishing line.

While delighted with their latest escapade, the Rally the Globe team has no time to rest on its laurels with four more standout events lined up for the remainder of the year. Next up is the third running of the award-winning Generations Rally (22-24 March) followed by the Vintage Shamrock (6-9 May) which is organised in partnership with Irish Racing Green. Two continental ventures then swiftly follow: Carrera Bavaria (16-26 June) and Austria to Athens Challenge (29 September – 13 October).

Rally the Globe’s ensuing endurance style event is next year’s Islands of Japan Marathon (24 September – 21 October 2025). While the Generations Rally is fully-subscribed, a limited number of entries are still available for other forthcoming events.

CLASSIC INSURANCE SERVICES ANNOUNCES SPONSORSHIP OF THE 2024 GENERATIONS RALLY

We are delighted to announce that Classic Insurance Services, part of the Kingfisher Insurance family, will be sponsors of the 2024 Generations Rally.

Specifically designed for crews from different generations, the Generations Rally encourages the continuation of passion for historic motorsport and the enjoyment of exceptional vehicles. Taking place on 22nd – 24th March, the Rally route starts in Cheshire before crossing the border into Wales taking in the stunning scenery of the Clywdian and Cambrian mountains, before returning back to Cheshire.

As a leading provider of private client insurance, the sponsorship demonstrates Classic Insurance Service’s commitment to not only protecting but securing the enjoyment of these often unique pieces of automotive history for future generations.

Rally the Globe COO and Clerk of the Course, Mark Appleton commented:

“We are delighted to have Classic Insurance Services on board for the Generations Rally.  They share RtG’s founding ethos of preserving and promoting the use of vintage and classic cars both right now, and into the future.   Like us, they take pride in delivering a far-reaching, class-leading professional service without forgetting about the friendly and personal touches that make all the difference.”

Carole Pearson, Head of Classic Insurance Services added:

“We understand the excitement and thrill that can come from historic rallying and as a leading Private Client insurer we are dedicated to the protection (and enjoyment!) of fantastic vehicles – values that we know are shared with the Generations Rally team and participants.

“Classic Insurance Services are part of the wider Kingfisher Insurance family, and through this can  arrange cover for our clients’ vehicle collections and motorsport activity through our sister division Reis Motorsport Insurance.”

About Classic Insurance Services

Classic Insurance Services are specialists in arranging insurance for valuable vehicle collections, high value homes and property portfolios. As part of the Kingfisher Insurance family, and as one of the leading Private Client insurance brokers, they are committed to delivering excellent service and trusted to protect their clients’ most valuable assets and possessions.

Find out more at: https://www.classicinsuranceservices.com/

RALLY THE GLOBE GEARS UP FOR AN EPIC NEW YEAR OF DRIVING ADVENTURES

• For the first time ‘Marathon’, ‘Challenge’ and ‘Carrera’ events will all feature on a single year’s calendar
• Generations Rally and Vintage Shamrock already sold out 
• Bavarian delight set to surprise in the late summer sunshine 
• “It promises to be our best year yet,” predicts Fred Gallagher

2023 was a momentous year for Rally the Globe culminating in the not-for-profit club’s first long-distance ‘Marathon’ style event – an epic 7,500 mile (12,000kms) driving adventure from chilly Alaska to sun-drenched Mexico across no fewer than 38 lines of latitude.

Soon 2024 will dawn with an even more enthralling and spectacular programme of unforgettable motoring odysseys for vintage and classic cars.

For the first time, Rally the Globe will be offering ‘Carrera’ and ‘Challenge’ as well as ‘Marathon’ style competitive escapades all within a single year of its eagerly-anticipated globe-trotting calendar.

The year commences in grand style in South East Asia with the Road to Hanoi Marathon (27 January-23 February) with two continental European ventures to follow: Carrera Bavaria (16-26 June) and Austria to Athens Challenge (30 September – 13 October).

The comprehensive five event schedule also includes two established favourites based closer to home: the third running of the award-winning Generations Rally (22-24 March), and the Vintage Shamrock (6-9 May) which is organised in partnership with Irish Racing Green.

“Generations and the Vintage Shamrock have swiftly established themselves as much-loved – and significant – staples on our calendar,” confirmed Mark Appleton, Rally the Globe’s busy Clerk of the Course. “The former encourages younger participants to enjoy our sport while, set in stunning Irish scenery, the latter never fails to deliver all the hospitality and charm for which Ireland is so renowned.”

Endorsing their popularity, both those events are already at full capacity with Reserve Lists open. Both also offer participants eye-catching new vistas with new locations for 2024. Next year’s Generations Rally will be based in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and includes Tests and Regularity Sections in the midst of the Welsh mountains while now in its fifth year the Vintage Shamrock, a celebration of pre-war motoring, moves north in the Emerald Isle to the ancient kingdom of Connacht including a visit to the spectacular Connemara.

“It promises to be our best year yet with something special for all our members,” confirmed Fred Gallagher, Rally the Globe’s vastly experienced Rally Director.

“As our second Marathon, the Road to Hanoi is going to be an incredible journey of discovery on the trails of Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos, and our two continental expeditions will offer many, perhaps surprising delights with routes travelling through often undiscovered regions.”

Indeed, Gallagher has just returned from driving the entire Carrera Bavaria itinerary  and was bowled over by the ever-changing beauty of the scenery, the excellence of the luxurious hotels and the availability of traffic-free roads and test tracks along the way.

“Southern Germany really is a truly incredible area that is all too often overlooked by travellers. It ranges from the wine regions in the north to the majesty of the Alps in the south, via medieval villages, crystal clear lakes and the famed Black Forest,” enthused the incredibly well-travelled Gallagher.

“I’ve got to say I was amazed and delighted by what our crews are going to experience in the late summer sunshine. The underestimated beauty and deserted roads are certainly going to astound many, while the many added attractions – including trips to notable museums and the Porsche Experience circuit at Hockenheim – will delight others. I had a big smile on my face all the way!”

The ever-industrious and creative Rally the Globe team has well-founded high expectations for the Austria to Athens Challenge, too. For the more intrepid – and visiting seven countries in 14 days – this two week competitive automotive adventure is set on a mix of asphalt and gravel roads from the Alps, through the lesser-known parts of Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania all the way down the Balkans to the wonders of the ancient capital of Greece by the warm waters of the Aegean Sea.

While many events are already at capacity a few places remain open for both Carrera Bavaria and the Austria to Athens Challenge. Looking further ahead, entries for both the 2025 Generations Rally and Vintage Shamrock will open in March and May respectively. Moreover, Rally the Globe is starting to plan a third Marathon – Islands of Japan Marathon, which will be an incredible journey through the cultural and topographical landscapes of faraway Japan in the Autumn.

“There’s no standing still,” confirmed the highly-regarded Appleton who has just returned from an initial recce of sections of the outstanding Austria to Athens route. “With five very different events on the calendar, 2024’s portfolio is perfectly primed to build on our many recent successes and we are already starting to explore the globe for further wonderful driving adventures thereafter. We never stop moving!”

AUSTRIA TO ATHENS CHALLENGE – ENTRIES NOW OPEN!

Taking place from 30 September to 13 October, the two-week competitive rally will traverse 4,000km across seven European countries, starting in the Austrian Alps and finishing by the warm waters of the Aegean Sea.

Highlights will include Slovenian picture-postcard landscapes; exceptional seascapes on the Dalmatian Coast; the historical towns, bridges and bazaars of Bosnia & Herzegovina; sinuous mountain roads in Montenegro; regular reminders of the communist past in Albania; and delightful driving in the Pindos mountains and Acropolis Rally heartlands in Greece.

As a Challenge event, the route will explore some of the remotest parts of Europe and competitive sections on gravel and unsurfaced roads will spice things up. However, there will also be opportunities to experience the array of cultures and hidden gems that reveal themselves to the adventurer committed to taking the “road less-travelled”.

Visit the rally page at the link below to view full details and request an entry form.

CARRERA BAVARIA RECCE REPORT

Day 0

Jim Smith and I, reunited on recce together for the first time since Ypres to Istanbul, back in the dark days of Covid, met up in Kronberg on the outskirts of Frankfurt. With our trusty Rally the Globe Hilux 02 and its wheel driven Monit trip at our disposal, we set a relatively long calibration route starting and finishing at the event hotel. Schloss Kronberg is a magnificent venue from which to start a Carrera event and is steeped in history. A fine Italian meal in town and an early night followed for the recce crew.

Day 1

At 08:30 Saturday morning we hit the road. Using roads suggested to us by our German route advisor, Uwe Schmidt, and some of which we had recced back in May, we headed west and south through the Taunus Mountains. Roads were traffic free, and soon we were in the Rheinhessen wine region, the largest of Germany’s 13 top quality production areas. We crossed the Rhine, not for the last time, and late morning revisited the splendid lunch spot we discovered on the first recce. Boudier & Koeller is a beautiful hotel, restaurant and winery with beautiful gardens and inviting indoor spaces. There is always the temptation to linger but we had regularities to find and tests to design so we reluctantly headed south.

At 17km Waldleiningen is one of the longer sections on the event, although the scenic, mountain road’s single junction should ensure an easy introduction for the navigators. A second, shorter regularity soon followed before we left the hills in search of some action in the form of tests. Approaching the Speyer Technical Museum, the sight of a full-sized Lufthansa Boeing 747 seemingly suspended in the sky cannot fail to impress. The museum, for the most part outdoor, is a mix of aeroplanes, boats, cars and even a pair of submarines. Our first test of the event will be on the premises and there will be time for coffee and a cake, and a wander round the exhibits. From there it’s only 15km to Hockenheim where we are fortunate to have secured the Porsche Experience circuit for a test or two. This facility is truly impressive, and we felt honoured to be welcomed there. Historic Heidelberg is close by and our easily accessible, luxury, city centre hotel will be a fitting end to an action packed first day of competition.

Day 2

Heidelberg is a compact city and within five kilometres of leaving our hotel we have our first regularity of Day 2. Then we continue south with a coffee stop in the pedestrian area of Bretten, surrounded by beautiful, half-timbered houses. Incidentally, Bretten was on the route taken by Bertha Benz in 1888 when she took her two sons on a 100km trip in her husband’s newly invented horseless carriage. Later in the morning we enter the Black Forest and tackle another short regularity before our midday stop. Lunch will be taken in Schloss Eberstein perched over the dramatic valley of the River Murg. Lunch digested, the next regularity starts literally on the hotel’s doorstep and is a 17km beauty. A pleasant afternoon’s drive takes us to the beautiful Hotel Traube Tonbach, our home for the next two nights, in the heart of the Black Forest.

 

Day 3

Bearing in mind our fabulous hotel’s extensive leisure facilities, a conscious decision was made to have an early arrival on the third day of our event. Nevertheless, three challenging regularity sections will be run in quick succession during the morning before coffee is take in the middle of the forest. On recce we felt obliged to try the legendary Black Forest gateau and wandered contentedly back to our truck for the run to the rally hotel and our somewhat less glamorous recce accommodation in nearby Freudenstadt. We had a few questions regarding potential road closures, so Uwe Schmidt kindly drove down, and all the issues were resolved over a coffee in the sunshine in the historic town square.

Day 4

On the fourth day of our adventure the scenery begins to change. To start with we are still in the heart of the Black Forest and a regularity is held amongst the pines on another twisty mountain road before we descend into Wolfach, another picture postcard perfect German town. We will take morning coffee in a large glass blowing centre which features a labyrinth of rooms selling every kind of glass imaginable, and some that aren’t! A new innovation before lunch will be a 10km untimed navigation section where the objective will be to get the Passage Control signatures and Code Boards in the correct order having followed the unambiguous road book. No tricks but hopefully lots of fun. A spectacular, deserted country road alongside a river takes us to an isolated restaurant in an old mill, where the owners are excited to see us and our cars. On our way to Konstanz and our overnight halt on the shores of that lake, we will take in a test or two at an extensive driver training area. Our hotel is full of history and beautifully located in the heart of the city.

Day 5

We started the day with a cruise, or more realistically a half hour ferry ride to the north shore of the lake. A short drive from there the rally will regroup at a quirky tractor museum before heading to an equally quirky driving school were we will have a test amongst the trees and signposts. The town of Kissleg is looking forward to hosting us for lunch and as we left the hotel owner was seen cycling off to the Mayor’s office with a handful of Carrera Bavaria brochures. By now we were seeing signs of the Alps off to our right, and at our quaint afternoon stop typical Bavaria wear was much in evidence. From here it’s dirndls and lederhosen all the way to Berchtesgaden! After five days on the road we were delighted to arrive at the splendid Steigenberger hotel in the small spa town of Bad Worishofen, where Uwe has arranged for the main pedestrian shopping street to host our arrival under the RtG arch before our welcome rest day.

Day 7

Fully refreshed after a day in luxurious surroundings, and with the various notes and maps tidied up, we headed east through some beautiful agricultural land with the distant Alps ever present on our right side. A short regularity led us to the charming Gasthof Graf run by the family of that name. Weather permitting, we will have coffee and local specialities in the garden. Not far from there we discovered an interesting regularity where we felt at times that we were going round in circles…… Lakes were becoming more and more frequent, and we chose an inn on the shores of the Kochelsee for lunch. In the afternoon we took in a regularity on a toll road which featured a covered bridge, something more usually seen in the United States. We crossed briefly into Austria before tackling a short hill climb at the summit of which we will regroup and take coffee. The day’s competition ended with an intriguing, toll road regularity featuring a rather narrow tunnel. Make sure you have a torch or a map light at hand. From there it was a short drive to our overnight hotel, a wooden, luxurious ski chalet style establishment with extensive views.

Day 8

This day saw us doing the most extensive changes to the route we had chosen on the first recce. We started with an interesting regularity before stopping at an extraordinary museum complex where we will have a typical Bavarian brunch amongst the exhibits. We’ll be just behind the multi-coloured bus! The head of events at the museum suggested we should visit the town of Wasserburg and we were not disappointed. Surrounded on three sides by the River Inn it is not to be missed and time will be added to the schedule to allow competitors to explore the town on foot. A pair of short Regularities take us through increasingly dramatic scenery to Berchtesgaden and the fabulous Kempinski Hotel perched above the tow. This will be our home for the final three nights of the event.

Day 9

This, the penultimate day of the event, was spent almost entirely in wonderful mountain scenery with traffic-free spectacular roads. Almost directly from the hotel we were on the famous Rossfeld hill climb course before crossing into Austria again. We climbed the hill to Gaisberg where there is a friendly café at the summit. The high afternoon roads were truly inspiring, and we had smiles on our faces as we descended back into Germany.

Day 10

The short, final day has the most beautiful run out to a complex of driving centres and test tracks that we have rented for the day. There will be two Tests in the morning before a gourmet final lunch. Then revised versions of the Tests will be tackled before we return to Berchtesgaden for the traditional early afternoon finish ceremony. Jim and I both enjoyed the route enormously and it was a pleasure to discover this area, largely unknown to us.

We look forward to sharing our discoveries with you in June 2024.

RALLY THE GLOBE STAGES ITS MAIDEN MARATHON WITH EPIC ALASKA TO MEXICO ADVENTURE

  • North American odyssey wows crews through ‘the great outdoors’ 
  • Fords to fore on spectacular 30-day voyage from Anchorage to Baja
  • Club’s first ‘Marathon’ category rally highly acclaimed by all 
  • Focus now switches to busy 2024 programme of events  

Rally the Globe’s first long-distance ‘Marathon’ style event certainly lived up to its big billing as the club’s longest and most spectacular driving adventure to date.

Taking plucky participants on an epic 7,500 mile (12,000kms) odyssey from chilly, damp Anchorage to sweltering Cabo San Lucas, as promised the spectacular Alaska to Mexico Marathon (27 August – 26 September) put the emphasis on exploration and endurance.

The unforgettable 30-day voyage crossed no fewer than 38 lines of latitude as crews travelled through barren wildernesses with artic flora and fauna, remote outposts from the gold rush era, rocky snow-capped mountainscapes, rolling vineyards, ancient canyonlands and, finally, cactus strewn deserts en-route to the very welcome tropical beaches at the southern-most tip of the Baja Peninsula where two first-time Rally the Globe winners were crowned.

Along the way, four hard-earned rest days were set aside in Dawson Creek, Walla Walla, Moab and Tucson to give everyone a well-deserved opportunity to draw breath and refettle machinery.

In anticipation of the incredible itinerary ahead, a full-capacity field of 47 scrutineered cars and their excited crews gathered in Anchorage ready for the start, entries in age ranging from a trio of vintage Bentleys from the 1920s to a pair of Range Rovers from the early 1980s.

Unsurprisingly, proven American automotive icons such as Chevy Coupes and Ford Mustangs were out in force alongside an equally impressive line-up of European challengers from respected marques with rallying pedigrees including Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Saab and Volvo. Adding to the international ambience, crews hailed from right across Europe as well as the US, Australia and New Zealand.

Living up to the event’s ‘marathon’ status, driving days were always challenging and rarely less than 250 miles (400kms) in distance, much staged on unsurfaced gravel or sandy roads taking participants through a never-ending succession of dramatic backdrops they would never normally experience.

Competitive elements consisted of daily Regularity Sections requiring navigational skills interspersed with Speed Tests at some wonderfully named motorsport venues. The Alaska Raceway, Caribou Raceway Park, Thunder Mountain Raceway, Atomic Motor Raceway and Tucson Speedway all featured on the long and winding route south via remote parts of Canada and the US to the Mexican coast.

Among the Pre-war entrants it was the 1940 Ford Coupe of Manuel and Irene Dubs that was fastest out of the Alaskan blocks – a lead the swift-starting Swiss pairing maintained throughout. The well-driven and distinctive Dearborn-built V8 was right at home on the north American dirt roads.

The battle behind, though, was fiercely fought right to finishing line with a fellow Ford – this time the 1936 V8 Convertible of Andrew and Ann Boland – finally taking second place ahead of the 1927 Bentley 4½ Le Mans of Graham and Marina Goodwin.

“There’s nothing I like better than driving on challenging gravel roads so this event was amazing for me,” said the victorious Manuel Dubs. “I really must thank the Rally the Globe team for the excellent organisation and support.”

It was another Ford – this time the 1973 Escort RS1600 of Ean and Alison Lewin – which led the way among the more modern Classic contenders. And, once again, the real action came behind the leaders where places were constantly swapping.

Eventually it was the 1959 Volvo PV544 of Mike and Lorna Harrison which secured second position on the podium with the 1965 Porsche 911 of Steve and Jenny Verrall recovering to grab third after dropping time in Arizona. The same three crews had also annexed the top three spots on last summer’s Ypres to Istanbul Challenge, albeit in the reverse order.

“The fantastic Rally the Globe team has surpassed themselves again – it was utterly, utterly brilliant,” enthused the delighted Ean Lewin. “We weren’t the fastest on the Speed Tests nor were we top on the Regularities but we were consistent throughout – that was the secret to our success. Roll on Saigon!” he concluded looking forward to Rally the Globe’s next event, the Road to Hanoi Marathon in early 2024.

As well as the overall awards there were some discretionary prizes. The Spirit of the Rally went to Tim Eades for never giving up, eventually bringing his son Patrick to fill the spare seat in a 1978 Ford Bronco which replaced his 1971 Ford Escort mid-matathon! The Against All Odds trophy was scooped by Brian and Catherine Scowcroft for getting their old 1936 Chevy Fangio Coupe to the finish after an electrical fire, brake failure and several steering issues.

“This was our first marathon style event and probably the best long-distance rally that we’ve done yet – as planned, it really did have everything,” admitted a delighted Fred Gallagher, Rally the Globe’s much-respected Rally Director. “We travelled from virtually the Artic Circle to the Tropic of Cancer, experiencing the full north/south extent of the North American continent on great traffic-free roads, off the beaten track virtually all the way.

“As ever, we wanted to take crews into parts of the world they wouldn’t otherwise savour and it was particularly pleasing to show our American crews places they didn’t know virtually in their own backyard!” grinned Gallagher.

“There were massive variations not only in the epic scenery but also in temperature – we went from 4 degrees to 45 degrees centigrade! We also had an amazing bunch of competitors and great team running the rally. From all angles it was a huge, huge success.”

Though the widely acclaimed Alaska to Mexico Marathon was Rally the Globe’s final event in 2023, the triumphant Rally the Globe team has little time to savour its latest success.

Next year’s schedule will be the not-for-profit Club’s most ambitious yet, kicking off with the Road to Hanoi Marathon at the end of January. The Asian adventure is swiftly followed by the third of its award-winning Generations Rallies in March (with a new Cheshire base in 2024), the Vintage Shamrock in May and the Carrera Bavaria in June. In latest news, those will be joined by a stunning Challenge style rally exploring the lesser-visited parts of the Balkans during the Autumn.

“There’s a lot to look forward to!” anticipated Gallagher.

STUNNING JAGUAR C-TYPE MAKES MORE HISTORY WITH CARRERA RIVIERA VICTORY

• Le Mans icon gives Jaguar its first Rally the Globe win 
• 11 days of epic competition and camaraderie in La Belle France
• From the English Channel to the Mediterranean via the Atlantic coast and Alps 
• Fraser Nash-BMW 328 pairing claim back-to-back Carrera wins in vintage category
• Next up? Two Marathons: Alaska to Mexico and the Road to Hanoi 

Jaguar’s legendary C-type just keeps winning and winning! Its latest victory came on Rally the Globe’s highly-acclaimed Carrera Riviera – an epic 11-day driving adventure through the ever-changing realms of France.

It was a hard-fought, historic and opportune victory for the iconic British sports racer, too. The C-type’s triumph not only celebrated the very first time a Jaguar had ever won a Rally the Globe event but also came exactly 70 years after one of the sublime sports racer’s most famous triumphs. It was in June 1953 that Duncan Hamilton and Tony Rolt famously won the Le Mans 24 Hours race… but only after a last-minute reprieve from the French organisers allowed the British crew to take the start.

Seven decades on, Carrera Riviera (4-15 June) was an incredible escapade set on some of France’s greatest traffic-free roads taking intrepid participants from the shores of the English Channel to the Mediterranean via the Atlantic coast and Alps.

When the very well-travelled crews finally reached the Côte d’Azur, it was the rare and desirable Jaguar crewed by father and son team Simon and Jack Brien that took top honours in the fiercely-fought Classic category, thus adding yet another prized trophy to the C-type’s never-ending roll of honour. Just 53 C-type sportscars were produced in period and this was chassis number XKC 030.

Remarkably after such an incredible 2,060-mile (3,300km) journey showcasing the very best La Belle France has to offer, the Brien duo actually finished tied at the top of the results with the 1973 MGB GT of Tomasz Dzitko and Beata Siwek. Both crews celebrated under the finishing arch but the Polish pair lost out on a tie-breaker based on the age of the vehicle which awarded the final spoils to the more venerable 1953 Jaguar.

The battle in the Pre-war class (pre-1946) was almost as dramatic with the 1937 Fraser Nash-BMW 328 of Martin and Olivia Hunt just pipping the 1925 Bentley Supersports shared by Graham and Marina Goodwin to the post by the smallest of margins. It was a second successive Carrera victory for the Hunts who also won last year’s Carrera España in the same car.

Running to Rally the Globe’s much-loved ‘Carrera’ format, the Gallic adventure boasted a superb all-asphalt itinerary with visits to private racetracks and circuits during 11 days of great camaraderie and wonderful hospitality set against stunning landscapes.

The outstanding quality of the trip was, perhaps, of no surprise as it had been devised by Rally the Globe’s distinguished Rally Director, Fred Gallagher. What’s more he was ably assisted by Denis Giraudet, a fellow experienced navigator of considerable repute from the upper echelons of the World Rally Championship.

In readiness for the start, a fully subscribed entry of 42 vintage and classic cars (all pre-1977) – plus their excited crews – assembled in delightful Deauville, the most chic and glamorous seaside resort in Normandy. Ahead lay a truly memorable journey through 31 mostly sun-drenched French departments with off-road Speed Tests and other controls along the way to provide the competitive element.

Underlying Rally the Globe’s ever-widening international appeal, the top class entry came from throughout Europe as well as Kenya, Canada, USA and Australia.

From Deauville, the route took participants via the magnificent Chateaux of the Loire valley to La Rochelle on the Atlantic coast, then through the wine regions of Cognac and Bordeaux for a well-earned rest day in Saint-Émilion.

Fully rejuvenated, the cavalcade then headed towards the famous mediaeval city of Carcassonne. From there it was into more serious rally country – notably roads made famous by the legendary Monte Carlo Rally – concluding with a short, twisty descent to the Mediterranean Riviera and the seafront finish in opulent Cannes.

First away from Deauville was the mighty 1917 La France Roadster of John and Catherine Harrison ­– not only the oldest but by far the biggest of the cars on the entry list. With a vast 14,500cc engine under its long bonnet, the chain-driven monster had more than nine times the capacity of the two smallest engine 1600cc cars (1964 Alfa Romeo Giulia Spider and 1973 Ford Escort Mexico) on the entry and was fully 57 years older than the 1974 MGB GT of Philip and Lynda Blunden.

Among the Classics the 1966 Ford Mustang of Rob Collinge and Tony Brooks was among the early pacesetters, however, the American pony car was quickly usurped by the orange MGB GT of Dzitko and Siwek which briefly led before the incredibly rare and desirable C-type rose to the top.

Rally the Globe regulars Graham and Marina Goodwin led the pre-war category in their 1925 Bentley Supersports but the Hunt’s Fraser Nash-BMW was never far behind as the crews sped through the vineyards under bright blue skies on some of France’s finest country roads.

After the summer sunshine, the weather turned wet and misty as the Rally the Globe convoy reached the Courchevel ski resort nestling in the Alps with torrential rain in the mountains forcing a couple of re-routes. As ever, though, the experienced Rally the Globe team came up trumps and kept the show on the road and the celebrations at the finish on La Croisette, Cannes’ world-famous shoreline boulevard.

Although the valiant MG mounted a last-gasp challenge and drew level on the leader-board with the pace-setting C-type as the cars descended from Courchevel, the plucky Poles just couldn’t get in front of the Coventry cat.

As well as Jaguar’s first Rally the Globe victory, it was also Simon Brien’s first win on his first Carrera. “The C-type was just the dream car to drive – it’s absolutely stunning and has so much heritage,” enthused the understandably delighted victor. “Rally the Globe produced an unbelievable route with some fabulous Tests to keep us on our toes. I couldn’t be more appreciative of the 11 amazing days we’ve had – everyone just had a fantastic ball.”

After posting back-to-back Carrera wins among those in pre-war cars, Martin Hunt was equally appreciative. “We’ve had another fantastic event with Rally the Globe,” he said. “Of course it’s always nice to win but much more than that we are all winners as it’s such a delight and privilege just to be a small part of these wondrous driving adventures. We are now already looking at our diaries to book our place on the next Carrera in 2024!”

As well as the sporting awards, two discretionary prizes were also presented. The Spirit of the Rally accolade went to Ean and Alison Lewin in their Escort Mexico while the Against all Odds trophy was handed to John and Catherine Harrison in recognition of their sterling efforts crewing the almighty La France Roadster. The award for the best driver on the Tests went to Neil Smith and Irene Dubs was named as the best navigator.

As the awards were handed out, the ever-gracious Gallagher paid tribute to all who had made the event such a success with a special mention going to Denis Giraudet who’d worked so hard to weave all of those minor roads and Test venues into one rich tapestry.

“Deauville seems such a long time ago but what a great time we’ve had,” admitted Rally the Globe’s Rally Director. “This has been another incredible Carrera and we’ve been delighted with the way it’s been received. A lot of hard work went into the organisation and to see so many people having such a great time makes it all worthwhile. The roads have been amazing, the venues were incredible and the hospitality was sensational. There were some challenges with the weather in the Alps but these only added to the experience and I think we’ll all remember Carrera Riviera for a very long time”.

While harbouring all those great memories, the busy Rally the Globe team has two long-distance Marathon category escapades appearing quickly on the horizon.

First up is the Alaska to Mexico Marathon (27 August-26 September) which is swiftly followed by The Road to Hanoi Marathon (27 January–23 February) early in the new year.

With a sense of real adventure, the former takes participants across 38 lines of latitude from snow-capped mountains to the hot sandy beaches of the Baja Peninsula. The latter promises to be an equally seminal journey through the wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos.

For those keen to experience either – or, indeed, both – one final place remains available on the North American expedition after a late withdrawal and there are few remaining places on the South East Asian trip that follows.

RALLY THE GLOBE WELCOMES EXCITING NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH RM SOTHEBY’S

• Proven market leaders team up to ignite mutual benefits  
• Platform for increasing overseas awareness for international driving adventures 
• New addition to RM Sotheby’s incredible portfolio of prestigious auctions and events
• Carrera Bavaria – the latest addition to Rally the Globe’s popular ‘Carrera’ series

Rally the Globe is delighted to announce an exciting new and far-reaching partnership with RM Sotheby’s. Both highly-respected organisations are market leaders in their respective fields within the automotive sector.

Rally the Globe is an award-winning organiser of international events for classic and vintage cars and RM Sotheby’s is the world’s leading auction house for investment-quality cars. Now, by maximising the wide-ranging opportunities presented by this enthusiastic new relationship, both eminent brands will be on pole position to further strengthen their reach and influence.

While based in the UK, the acclaimed Rally the Globe team stages driving adventures all over the planet. Indeed, its current calendar includes events in Continental Europe, North America and South East Asia as well as closer to home in both Ireland and mainland Britain.

With an enviable reputation for delivering outstanding driving escapades, all this year’s adventures already boast full entry lists. Nevertheless, with ever-changing economics and demographics, the not-for-profit club is always exploring ways to build on its on-going successes and this partnership with RM Sotheby’s is another significant advance.

“Our profile is growing all the time and this new relationship with RM Sotheby’s will further fuel interest and participation in our portfolio of wonderful events,” enthused Graham Goodwin, Chairman of Rally the Globe (photo above competing in recent Rally the Globe event). “In particular, RM Sotheby’s has a very big presence in both Europe and America – those are two key markets in which we are keen to grow our brand recognition and thus club membership.

“While we have no immediate plans to expand our calendar – and our current events are running at full capacity – we certainly cannot take that for granted in the future. That’s why we are so delighted about this significant new partnership with such a proven champion in its very complementary field.”

Fulfilling the Rally the Globe bill, each year RM Sotheby’s presents a diverse roster of auctions hosted in some of the most prestigious settings across North America and Europe. These include Villa Erba in Italy, Le Mans in France as well as Monterey in The United States. Further emphasising its deep-rooted passion for period motoring, RM Sotheby’s is also title partner of the illustrious London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, the world’s oldest motoring celebration.

“RM Sotheby’s has a reputation for partnering with the world’s leading and most exclusive events and is now proud to be the official auction house for Rally the Globe,” said Greg Anderson, Managing Director, RM Sotheby’s. “It is through such strong partnerships that we have created a global platform for collector automobiles as well as introducing new audiences to our thrilling hobby. We love great cars – even more so when driven with purpose – and that’s an emotion shared with the Rally the Globe membership.”

Now working with the fervent support of RM Sotheby’s, the Rally the Globe team has a very busy and exhilarating year ahead with two more over-subscribed fixtures on the 2023 calendar. Next up is the Carrera Riviera which runs from Deauville to Cannes through beautiful rural France (4-15 June) and then the epic Alaska to Mexico Marathon (27 August-26 September) set in the ‘great outdoors’ of North America.

Those two highlights are swiftly followed in the New Year by another truly extraordinary driving adventure: the Road to Hanoi Marathon (27 January–23 February). While the 2023 events boast a full entry, a few places do remain open for what promises to be an incredible journey through the wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos.

Next year’s schedule also features – by popular demand – a third running of the award-winning Generations Rally plus a repeat of this month’s highly-acclaimed Shamrock Rally. Thereafter there is a return to Europe for the newly announced Carrera Bavaria, taking participants through the spectacular landscapes of southern Germany.

SPARKLING AMERICAN COMET SHINES ON ‘LUCKY’ SHAMROCK DEBUT

• Acclaimed new partnership between Irish Racing Green and Rally the Globe 
• Four-days of epic competition – and craic – on the south coast of Ireland 
• Californian convertible wins on its dramatic event debut 
• Class wins for Bentley, Frazer Nash, MG and Talbot crews
• Next up: Carrera Riviera and Alaska to Mexico Marathon

The striking Kurtis Comet crewed by Jim Gately and Tony Brooks scored a dramatic final day victory on a memorable Vintage Shamrock 2023 after only snatching the overall lead on the last morning of the enthralling rally set in the spectacular scenery of the south coast of Ireland (8-11 May).

Gately attributed his stand-out success to ‘luck’ but, in reality, it was the American’s driving skills paired with the navigational dexterities of his English co-driver which combined to secure an outstanding win after four days of closely contested – yet always convivial – competition.

The pair’s impressive triumph was all the more remarkable as it was their very first entry into the much-loved Vintage Shamrock. Moreover, the big, red, V8-powered Comet roadster with its ‘Made in California’ heritage hardly seemed to be in its natural habitat on the often narrow and twisty highways and byways of the Emerald Isle.

“It’s so big that it’s a bit like driving a boat at times,” admitted a delighted Gately at the finish. “But with its light aluminium body and a solid Ford V8 engine, we do have a great power-to-weight ratio. As to the secrets behind this surprising success, I’d put that down entirely to beginner’s luck!” he said modestly.

Building on the three past successes, this year’s Vintage Shamrock was the first to be organised by the event’s founders, Irish Racing Green, in collaboration with Rally the Globe and came with additional support from expert insurers Chubb and Barrett Private Insurances.

The new partnership proved to be an immediate triumph with Irish Racing Green’s local knowledge and infectious Irish charisma now complemented by Rally the Globe’s proven professionalism. Working together, the pair produced a truly magical driving adventure with the emphasis split equally between some challenging competitive motoring through beautiful landscapes and all-important friendly camaraderie.

Reserved solely for Vintage and Post-Vintage category cars, the Shamrock has always boasted a high-quality entry and this year was no different with a full capacity roster of 60 crews signing up for the craic.

The oldest cars – a Bentley 3/4½, Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost and a venerable Vauxhall 30-98 – all dated back almost a century to 1924 while slightly more modern, competition-proven Frazer Nash-BMWs, Rileys and Talbots from the following decade proved popular choices.

Eager crews were initially based in the rural tranquility of the luxurious Faithlegg Hotel, a restored 18th Century mansion overlooking the Suir Estuary close to the historic city of Waterford.

Once all the pre-requisite paperwork was completed and road books together with time cards distributed, the opening day featured an afternoon of action on a cleverly-conceived 78-mile route set in beautiful County Wexford including Tests at the Kiltorcan Raceway, Woodville House and Whitechurch plus a very detailed Regularity close to the village of Campile.

As the cars headed back to Faithlegg – via the Passage East ferry – it was the MG K3 of Clint and Dawn Smith which led the pack, with the Kurtis Comet and the Bentley of Graham and Marina Goodwin in close pursuit, as well as leading their own respective classes.

Five regularities and two Tests were in store for crews on day two, alongside some more spectacular scenery – notably on the deserted roads of the Copper Coast. As ever the driving was enhanced by some superb hospitality as crews travelled towards three nights at the fabulous 5-Star Castlemartyr Resort set amid East Cork’s glorious woodlands.

With the MG K3 slipping down the leaderboard, it was the Bentley driven by birthday boy Graham Goodwin and the rare Kurtis Comet which moved to the top of the timesheets. They now led the 1934 Talbot AV105 of Bertie and Charlotte van Houtte, which had jumped up into a close third position.

Day three was the longest on the road taking in the wonders of the Comeragh, Knockmealdown and Monavullagh Mountains plus the impressive spectacle of the Mahon Falls. The outstanding 146-mile route presented crews with five Regularities and three Tests as well as a series of well-placed Passage and Time Controls.

Despite all the challenges, the top three remained unchanged with the Smiths’ MG fighting back to fourth overall, having slipped to 13th after their promising start.

Though the final day was slightly shorter it was still demanding with three Regularities and four Tests set in and around Dungarvan and Cappoquin before crews could book into the final Time Control and prepare for the prize-giving dinner.

With Graham and Marina Goodwin’s Bentley falling back to third, it was the Kurtis Comet that inherited an unlikely victory with the van Houtte’s green Talbot AV105 finishing as runner-up. Sharing the spoils, the top three all won their respective classes as did the Smith’s MG K3 in fourth and the Frazer Nash-BMW 328 of Martin Hunt and Robert Mannix in fifth.

As well as the overall and class awards, there were also some discretionary honours. Thomas Houlihan and Edel Murphy took the Spirit of the Rally for the combination of their ever-sideways antics and ever-smiling faces aboard their 1937 Riley Special. Meanwhile Elizabeth Heyer and Martin Hunter, who faced a battle to keep their delightful but unpredictable Salmson VAL3 Grand Sport on the road, were rewarded with the Against All Odds trophy for their sterling efforts. Special thanks were also paid to the teams of local marshals whose assistance proved invaluable.

The big winner, though, was the Vintage Shamrock with the exciting new collaboration between Irish Racing Green and Rally the Globe being widely acclaimed as delivering what was unquestionably a really special event of exceptional character.

“The Shamrock is our baby so we were understandably nervous about sharing it but, now the event is over, we are absolutely delighted – it feels more like a marriage than an adoption!” enthused Michael Jackson, one of Irish Racing Green’s three founders. “We very much wanted to keep the flavour of the Shamrock because it is just so unique and very different to other events – we are really pleased that Rally the Globe clearly appreciates that character. It’s clear that we are all signing off the same hymn sheet.”

“They’ve done a fantastic job,” agreed fellow Irish Racing Green founder, Shane Houlihan. “The whole event ran very, very satisfactorily and, by all account, all the competitors had an absolute ball. The weather was kind and the routes chosen were spectacular with some really interesting and challenging driving. You really could not have asked for more.”

Those on the Rally the Globe side of the partnership were every bit as delighted with the new collaboration. “It was a tremendous event,” enthused  Fred Gallagher, Rally the Globe’s hugely respected Rally Director. “The cooperation between us and Irish Racing Green really worked terrifically well.

“Most importantly, the competitors all absolutely loved every aspect of it: the organisation, the hospitality and the friendliness as well as the competition and the scenery – so that was all very, very reassuring. It was so important that we kept the amazing spirit of the Shamrock and, by all accounts, we’ve done just that.”

Though a little disappointed to have missed out on overall victory, Rally the Globe’s Chairman Graham Goodwin was equally pleased with the collaboration. “We were honoured to be asked to join Irish Racing Green to be part of what’s a wonderful creation and it’s very important that we keep Pre-War events like the Shamrock going from strength-to-strength. Ireland is an amazing country in which to rally, the people are fantastic.”

The highly-praised and hard-working Rally the Globe team, though, has very little time to rest on its laurels with two more over-subscribed fixtures fast approaching on the 2023 calendar. Next up is the Carrera Riviera which runs from Deauville to Cannes through beautiful rural France (4-15 June) and it is followed by the epic Alaska to Mexico Marathon (27 August-26 September) set in the ‘great outdoors’ of North America.

Those two highlights are swiftly followed in the New Year by another truly extraordinary driving adventure: the Road to Hanoi Marathon (27 January–23 February). While the 2023 events boast a full entry, a few places do remain open for what promises to be an incredible journey through the wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos.

Next year’s schedule also features – by popular demand – a third running of the award-winning Generations Rally plus, naturally, a repeat of the highly-acclaimed Vintage Shamrock. Thereafter there is a return to Europe for the newly announced Carrera Bavaria, taking participants through the spectacular landscapes of southern Germany.