To coincide with Britain’s withdrawal from the EU, UK-based Bespoke Road Rallies is organising a dash to independence – a unique 22-day car run that requires participants to visit all 27 remaining EU member states.
It will be flagged off in Brussels on March 8, 2019 by a prominent Brexiteer and terminate in Parliament Square, London exactly one year from today (March 29) – the date final separation will commence.
Simple mechanics
The structure is deliberately straightforward. There is no element of speed, and only a judicious use of maps combined with skill and a dose of luck are required. The winning team will be the one that visits all EU countries in the shortest distance within the allotted time – for obvious reasons, driving (as opposed to just visiting) landlocked Malta and Cyprus is not a requirement, though additional points are available for those achieving that feat.
Major prize fund and lavish celebratory meals
The winners will receive a prize of up to £25,000 and there will be monetary awards down to 10th place, as well as ones for the best photos, blogs, vehicle preparation etc. The start will be preceded by a lavish meal of typically European fare (waffles and all), while the event will end with a truly British gala dinner in suitably grand surroundings.
Comprehensive communication
Each car will be tracked by GPS and be visible on the official website throughout the event. Each team will have its own social media page where photos and blogs of its progress will be logged.
All European nationalities welcome
While the event is primarily aimed at British motorists, teams from other European countries are encouraged to join in the fun.
All-inclusive rally pack
The all-important rally pack is designed to commemorate an unforgettable trip and will include: preparation manuals; swing tags; arm bands; decal and roundel sets; rally plaques, bag, pens and scrap book; Polaroid camera – and more.
Said event organiser John Brigden: “Brexit negotiations have sometimes been anything but harmonious, and our intention is for this fun event to return a degree of entente cordial to the relationship between Britain and the EU, while delivering a truly unique and memorable driving experience.”
