Rally Enthusiasts Converge in Dumfriesshire
Dumfriesshire is currently buzzing with excitement as it plays host to a significant portion of the European RAC Rally of the Tests. This historic regularity rally, known for its toughness, kicked off in Darlington on Thursday, November 7, and is set to conclude in Windermere on Sunday. With much of the route passing through southern and central Scotland, the rally has attracted participants from various corners of the world.
Among the competitors are George and Rosalind Topp from Gretna, driving a 1966 Volvo Amazon 132S. Scottish interest also lies with last year’s winners, Dan Willan and Scottish navigator Niall Frost in a 1962 Volvo PV544, along with Edinburgh’s Callum Guy and co-driver Amy Henchoz in a 1964 Sunbeam Tiger. The rally, a nostalgic recreation of the iconic RAC Rallies from the 1960s, features 80 crews and a diverse range of vintage cars, spanning from 1936 to 1990 and representing renowned automobile brands of the past.
The challenging route includes 30 speed tests held across private estates, hill climb tracks, forests, and military terrain, as well as over 22 navigational regularity sections, some of which are tackled after dark. Tomorrow will see competitors departing from Edinburgh en route to Carlisle for an overnight stop. The day’s itinerary includes high-speed runs up the Forrestburn Hillclimb track in Monklands, speed tests at the West of Scotland Kart Club’s track in Larkhall, and various other challenges before culminating at Carlisle airport.
The rally promises a thrilling display of skill, determination, and vintage automotive excellence against the picturesque backdrop of Dumfriesshire’s landscapes. With participants from around the globe converging to test their mettle in this gruelling competition, the event is set to captivate both rally enthusiasts and spectators alike.
In summary, the European RAC Rally of the Tests is currently underway in Dumfriesshire, showcasing a blend of history, adrenaline, and fierce competition as participants navigate a challenging route through southern and central Scotland. With vintage cars, skilled drivers, and scenic locations, the rally promises an exciting spectacle for all involved.