1976 Monte Carlo Rally

[Jerry B]

Hello all,

Does anybody out there have access to a copy of the 1976 Monte route, and would anyone be interested in a trip that followed the route.
I am thinking of a non-competetive event with a relaxed schedule and a few entertainments along the way, ending up sitting on the seafront at Monaco with a gin and tonic in hand.

I`m thinking about April/May next year, and it would be purely for stratos, of course.

I await any comments, perhaps there is already a similar event, or perhaps Corsica should be included whilst we`re down there.
All comments gratefully received (except the physically impossible ones).

[David May]

Is that to be only the REAL rally route (Col di Turini etc) or does it include that little link section from London to Monte-Carlo or wherever else they started from that year?

I like the idea of the grin and tonic on the seafront.

It also won at San Remo that year, that's just over the border (in my direction.)

Dave May

[guy mayers]

Hi Gerry, I know I'd be interested! It's been a year or two since the old girls ventures that far South and I'd love to see some of that neck of the woods. Might have to scare up a navigator though (maybe that's the wrong turn of phrase.......) or act as someone elses navigator!
Guy

[shaun]

I have often wondered if there was any interest in this sort of thing as I am living right next to the "old" Monte route. I will try and come up with a copy of the 76 route and can even offer B&B (20 pers) with secure parking.

Buy the way I am living near Crest code postal 26340 for those interested in planning the route.

I might even have a car by then.

Shaun

[Sando]

Jerry
that sounds an excellent idea and a good wheeze to boot. I'd definitly be interested. I'm sure there would be at least two cars from the Nottingham posse. (I think another 12 months should see me road legal too!!)

Don't make it too expensive though.... need to save some money for the G&T's !!!

Cheers
Robbie:cool:

[Vince Abbott]

I built my Strato's as a copy of the 1976 Monte winner (see members gallery) so finally taking it to the place that inspired my build sounds great. I managed to collect an official competitiors guide to the 1976 rally some years ago, I'll dig it out and see how informative it is - I'm pretty sure each stage is listed.

Vince.

[SUSIT]

Good man Jerry,
I would be up for that sounds just the thing to blow the winter cobwebs away next year.

Regards
Stephen Struthers:)

[Jerry B]

Great!, thanks for the response, it looks like it`s a go`er then.

Thanks for the offer of b&b Shaun, I reckon we`ll take you up on that, and if you can come up with a route that would be great.

As to running the old "collective" part of the route David, I think that may have to be left upto peolple`s individual choice because I think the Lancia team started from Rome that year which would be a bit of a trek to get to. I stand to be corrected on this however and I`m sure Vince can confirm the starting city. We could, of course, always start from Paris as I`m sure the Lancia team started from there one year.

From a personal view, I would rather not do the collective run, but concentrate on the stages and add extra mileage by going to San Remo or Corsica if we want to.

Keep the comments coming over the weekend. Lets get some idea of numbers and if it`s of interest to anyone, my second ( Gp4 Alitalia liveried) car will be available for hire for the event.

[SUSIT]

Jerry, I realise this is in the very early stages of planning but an early confirmation of dates may help some of us booking annual leave from work?


Stephen Struthers

[Marmott]

Jerry I would be ainterested also , please keep me posted
thanks
Gary Lomas

[Jerry B]

You old rally boys can`t resist it can you?

Good to see there`s so much interest. I`m sure there will be a few more interested people, I bet we can bully Cloggie into it, and it would be good to have a doctor in the crew, eh Chris? I also hope a few genuine cars will join in.

As for dates Steve, it is a bit early, I only thought of this on Tuesday. I`ll look into suitable dates but late March might be a good time. Easter will obviously have to be avoided and hopefully ferry/chunnel rates will still be cheap, and accomodation easy to find.
The worst of the weather will be over by then, but it won`t be too hot for the drivers or cars. If anybody knows of a good reason to avoid France then, please chip in.

I would be working on a week away from home which should allow a relaxed schedule. Driving will be done mostly in daylight so the scenery can be appreciated, but expect at least one night section, probably the last section over the Col de Turini. You can`t do the Monte with no night driving!!

More comments please

[tryphon]

That's a great idea and I'm also interested.
1 year gives a lot of time to plan and organize but we must be careful with the authorities as automotive things in France have pretty much changed these last few years. Noise could be an issue and my car make a whole lot of it now...

[SUSIT]

I was afraid of this, Late march means using this years holiday allocation and I have already booked all my annual leave. However for an event such as this I will try to bend the rules to make it happen for me.:)
Will we require snow tyres in late march?:D

Stephen Struthers

[rutthenut]

I really like the idea of this, but cannot confirm anything that far ahead with my on/off work situation as it stands.

A great idea - I really hope that (i) you can make it happen, and (ii) that I can make it along - as a driver or even as navigator...

Cheers all,

[ANDYG]

Easter in 2005 is late March, Good Friday is on the 25th and obviously Easter Monday is on the 28th. Mothering Sunday, for those who dont want to get onto trouble, is March 06th.
How about the start of April then??
Providing the dates are suitable - ie work etc - count me in.

[guy mayers]

The first couple of weeks in April would be better for me as well. The end of March will be expensive for channel crossings etc with it being Easter plus work is busy then with lots of companies having 31st March year ends and lots of stocktakes to attend! I guess that there might be a slim chance of a couple of days skiing at the start of April as well! Though not onthe Col de Turini I hope!
Guy

[SUSIT]

Just a thought but would it be possible to make it a fund raiser for some charity? or would that make it all a bit complicated?
Only thinking aloud:)


Stephen Struthers

[Vince Abbott]

Hello Jerry,

I managed to find my copy of the 1976 Monte Carlo Competitors Handbook and it lists all the stages of that event, they are as follows:

Itinerary: London to Monaco

London – Reims – Saint-Claude – Pinerolo – Monaco (1591 Km)


Itinerary: Paris to Monaco

Paris – Reims – Saint-Claude – Pinerolo – Monaco (1709 Km)


Common Run (Start 11am – Tues 20th Jan 1976)

Monaco – Gap – Vals Les Bains – Digne – Monaco

Stage 1: Monaco to Peira-Cava (55 km)
Stage 2: Peira-Cave to Entrevaux (83 Km)
Stage 3: Entrevaux to Castellane (51.5 Km)
Stage 4: Castellane to Bif (150.5 Km)
Stage 5: Bif to Gap (31 km)
Stage 6: Gap to Bif (61 Km)
Stage 7: Bif to Le Monetier (90 Km)
Stage 8: Le Monetier to Grenoble (101 Km)
Stage 9: Grenoble to St.Jean En Royans (65 Km)
Stage 10: St.Jean En Royans to St.Vallier (120.5 Km)
Stage 11: St.Vallier to St.Bonnet Le Froid (72 Km)
Stage 12: St.Bonnet Le Froid to Lalouvesac (38 Km)
Stage 13: Lalouvesac to Burzet (140 Km)
Stage 14: Burzet to Vals-Les-Bains (60 Km)
Stage 15:Vals-Les-Bains to Antraigues (9 Km)
Stage 16: Antraigues to St.Pierreville (89 Km)
Stage 17: St.Pierrevile to Le Teil (112 Km)
Stage 18: Le Teil to Montauban (96 Km)
Stage 19: Montauban to Digne (107 Km)
Stage 20: Digne to Lantosque (165 Km)
Stage 21: Lantosque to Monaco (73 Km)
The End.

Each stage is described in more detail but I’ve just listed the start and finish points, I hope this info helps.

Vince.

[tryphon]

Ah, brings up memories of when rallying was still a sport...
160Km against the clock now that's something that only if you've lived through it you're able to grasp.

[Jerry B]

Thanks guys.

Vince, that`s great. I,ve asked the Monaco A.C. for detailed route info but knowing my French I`ll probably end up with an entry for the Grand Prix. If you could send me any futher info I`d be very grateful. email jeremydbailey@hotmail.com.
From the distances you list I think that would provide enough driving for one event, otherwise it`s just going to be a mad rush, as opposed to a spirited drive. Of course if it all goes ok we can make it an annual event and go to Corsica another year or Sanremo or do the Circiut of Ireland. What do you all think.

Steve, whilst I`m all for raising money for charity, I think it may be a bit of a delicate conversation if we ask people for money so that we can all go and drive round France in our Stratos`s. I`d prefer to concentrate our fund raising to Dave`s Abingdon weekend and link it with the SEC. Nice thought though.

[guy mayers]

And if you ever suggest a return to the Safari route you can bugger off Jerry! I like the idea of retracing other European routes though!

[SUSIT]

I like the idea of retracing other European routes though!


Ok Guy, 1000 Lakes in 2006?:D


Stephen

PS
I will get that bit in the post tomorrow.

[guy mayers]

Now look..... I've just spent a bloody fortune on Campagnolos and I'm damned if I'm going to shell out again for skinny wheels and studded tyres!
NO.

Lombard anyone?

[PANOS]

1976 CYPRUS INTERNATIONAL RALLY

JAROSZEWICZ (THE SON OF THE THEN POLISH PM) ENTERED THE EVENT (CHASING POINTS FOR THE EUROPEAN CHAMPIONHIP, WHERE HE FINISHED 3RD AND DARNICHE WON) IN HIS WORK'S GR.4 STRATO'S AND SO DID I, IN MY VAUXHALL FIRENZA HP (DROOP SNOOT).
HE DIDN'T FINISH AND I ENDED UP DOWN THE SIDE OF THE TROODOS MOUNTAIN IN A HEAP...:(
AH, HAPPY DAYS...

ANY ONE INTERESTED IN RETRACING THAT YEAR'S ROUTE???
I STILL HAVE THE ORIGINAL ROUTE MAPS AND DOCUMENTS... AND I WANT TO FINISH IT THIS TIME.
NO? OH WELL, I THOUGHT IT WAS WORTH A TRY...

IN THE 70s, I DID THE 60s MONTE RUN IN A COUPLE OF CARS (COOPER, COOPER S) AND THE MONACO GP ROUTE A FEW TIMES IN VARIOUS CARS (COOPER S, FIRENZA, LAMBO), SO YOU CAN COUNT ME IN FOR THIS MONTE RUN TOO, IF... AND IT'S A BIG IF...

I HOPE ALL THIS DOESN'T SHOW MY AGE...;)

PANOS:cool:

[Stratos]

Originally posted by guy mayers

Lombard anyone?

I'm hoping to, and Jerry Bailey has also expressed an interest.

Would be best if we could field a 3 car team.

Shall we put your name down, Guy?



It won't be called RAC Rally though - it's the Roger Albert Clark rally.

Starts 20th November 2004 in Sheffield and finishes on 23rd November 2004.

[guy mayers]

As a spectator David - I know my limitations! But thanks for the suggestion!

[Stratos]

Originally posted by guy mayers
I know my limitations!

I know mine too - unfortunately I keep surpassing them, which causes nasty incidents ..... :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Andrew tries to keep me under control - I think it's a losing battle....

[guy mayers]

Ah, but at least you're willing to push the envelope to find those limits! Knowing how much the paint job is going to be makes me a little wary of loose surfaces.
And there's the financial side, licences, suit, helmet, entrance fees not to mention the 101 things the car might need to get through scrutineering! No, I'll stick to spectating thanks Dave!

[SUSIT]

Hi Dave,
Glad to see you are alive and hopfully well. I would almost kill to be able to do the Roger Albert Clark in my stratos. If anyone has any get rich quick ideas they would like to share on the forum please dont be shy. More than happy to offer service of myself and trusty subaru estate for servicing duties to anyone interested. will even pay own accomidation etc.:D :D


Stephen

ps
My new rollcage gets made today here's hoping it fits!:rolleyes:

[shaun]

Ahhh... St jean en Royans that is a classic stage, in fact I guess there are a lot of classic stages. Le Teil, which I think is next to Montelimar, is about 30mins drive from me. So, I still offer some form of overnight accomadation. If there is any chance of a copy of the full route I would be very interested, Michelin 1/200 000 map covering all(I think) the region in exchange?

There used to be/still is an event called the Monte challenge organised by a "Keith Baud". He might be able to offer some insight with legal aspects.

[shaun]

The Automobile club of Monaco ACM are sending me the route, I'll keep you "posted"

[guy mayers]

Originally posted by SUSIT
[B]PS
I will get that bit in the post tomorrow.

Bit arrived. Beer tokens at the bar next time we meet!
Cheers
Guy

[SUSIT]

Originally posted by guy mayers


Bit arrived. Beer tokens at the bar next time we meet!
Cheers
Guy


Nae problem:D

Stephen

[SUSIT]

Putting this back on top of the pile to make sure nobody misses out. This has to happen or I will be a broken man. As far as I can tell those interested are,
Jerry B
Guy
Rob (sando)
Bernard (Phil)
Marmot (Garry)
SUSIT (Steve)
Tryphon, sorry missed you the first time
Andy G, same for you Andy my apologies
Vince consider yourself included.

Dave May I hope you are considering going? Not as far as Abingdon.

Is there any other names to add?

[tryphon]

You can add me.

[ANDYG]

AND ME!!

[Jerry B]

Thanks for the prod Steve. I`m still waiting for the route from Monaco A. C.
Shaun, have you had anything yet.

Vince Abbott also semmed interested.

[shaun]

Yes, I have the route now. It is on 11 A4 pages. I am a bit busy with chasing after a car but maybe I can scan the pages and post in the Gallery or just send a copy and a map to the organiser, whoever that will be?

[Vince Abbott]

Yes I'd still like to be included.

Vince.

[rutthenut]

I'm interested too - ideally with my car, but as a co-driver otherwise...

[Cloggie]

I wouldn't miss this for the world!

I'll sign up to drive with the group 4, and if someone is willing to pay the insurance costs and cover any running costs, someone can drive the other Strat too....

[PANOS]

HI NICO,

GIVE ME A COSTING AND I MIGHT SERIOUSLY CONSIDER YOUR KIND OFFER...
MIGHT EVEN SHARE WITH JOHN RUTTER IF HE IS NOT TAKING HIS OWN CAR AND INTERESTED IN SHARING...


CIAO PANOS:cool:

[guy mayers]

Originally posted by rutthenut
I'm interested too - ideally with my car, but as a co-driver otherwise...

John - I'll be either looking for a navigator or willing to navigate! (It's been a long time since I sat in the left seat!)
How's the soundproofing in your car these days and does it have a heater yet? Alternatively, how about Chris & Lauren coming along as well!?

Guy

[tryphon]

Originally posted by guy mayers


How's the soundproofing in your car these days...

Don't tell me you guys use soundproofing material in your cars:confused:

[SUSIT]

Updated list of those interested, Getting serious, 12 names all with cars
Jerry B Guy Rob
Bernard Marmot Steve
Tryphon Andy G Vince
Rutthenut Cloggie Panos

The route starts and finishes in Monte Carlo I think. Do we all make our own way there or do the Uk based meet in Dover or another Port and travel together? Would we get a ferry deal this way? Jerry how much organising are you wanting to take on and how can the rest of us help? Shaun you talked about dealing with French authorities. If this is a non competative run of a group of individuals do we need to tell anyone or seek permission?
All thoughts and comments welcome


Stephen Struthers

[Jerry B]

Sounds like a right mottly crew to me. I can see that we might end up having more than one gin and tonic on the sea-front.
I suggest that those of us who will be at Stoneleigh this weekend have a good chat about it and come up with some ideas
As far as the organisation goes, I`m happy to do some, but I think there will be alot of work involved and the best results will probably come from various tasks being taken on by various individuals.
Whether we need approval for the event needs to be investigated aswell. One asumes we could say that we are just a bunch of friends on a driving holiday, in which case we don`t need any approval. Alternativly, I can`t see that we would have any problems getting clearance from RAC MSA if we did it through the club, once the club gets proper affiliation. We could then run the event under the appropriate permit that allows non-competitive events. This would be a bit more expensive, but would give us offical status and insurance cover, and would be my prefered option.
Off the top of my head, I can think of the following things that will need doing:
Route
Permit/Insurance
Accomodation
Channel crossing
Breakdown/Recovery
Other places to visit (car museums/collections)
Rally plates/stickers

I guess we will be looking for volunteers for all these things.

Shaun, can you confirm that the roads will be passable in early April in a normal year

[chris.richard]

Originally posted by Jerry B
Shaun, can you confirm that the roads will be passable in early April in a normal year

But Jerry, the Monte managed to get over them in January...

[shaun]

Roads should be ok, there is always that small chance that the Ardeche area or the higher altitude roads may have a light dusting of snow in the morning - I doubt it though.

I think the col de turini is the highest part of the 76 route. I really must get it scanned, I'll do it tonight. Who would like a copy to take to Stoneleigh?

[Jerry B]

Yes pease Shaun, that would be fantastic, many thanks.

Chris, if everybody is prepared to buy a set of narrow wheels and studded tyres and have them transported to the high sections we too could do it in January. The trouble is that anything fitted to a 10" or 12" rear wheel doesn`t give quite enough grip to get to the top of the passes. Coming down isn`t a problem but stopping, or even steering is! I speak from personal experience from doing the Liege-Corse a few years ago, I was surprised just how little grip my car had in the snow despite the rear engine.

[shaun]

Jerry, I have sent a couple of pages by email.

I have also posted a couple of pages in my gallery, if there is any interest I'll post the whole route - another10 or 12 pages.

Go on have a look, San Remo, Turini, Monaco - it has to happen, you all know it has to.

[SUSIT]

Shaun. Hi thanks for the input. If I pay for postage would you be able to send me a copy of the route? I cant remember if you own a Stratos? Are you going to take part?
I understand you may be able to help with B & B. Can I ask the rough cost of local B & B?
I am desperate for this to happen but need to budget carefully as I also want to be able to compete a fair amount next year so please excuse me if I sound inpatient. They dont pay us nurses that well over here.

Stephen Struthers

[shaun]

I do not yet own a stratos, now it is only a question of time until the right one comes up for sale - or I crack and build one.

B&B is 36E pppn
Hostel is 11E pppn
Evening meal here is 12E incl wine

No prob for the route send me your address. Not sure of cost of maps.

Pics (no english trans as yet)@
http://domaine.laplaine.free.fr/

I have a friend who might be able to rent his house at Menton although that could be a bit expensive.

I think Marmot has some good contacts in N France for a stop over, possibly ferries.

I will try and get hold of next years French holiday dates, at least for the w/e s to be avoided.

Back to work, farmers get paid less than nurses!

[shaun]

Oh, am I going to take part. Too right but not sure in which seat as yet.

[Swamprat33]

I am very interested as it sounds like a once in a lifetime trip, but I am concerned about the overall cost. Fuel in France is almost the same price as UK now.
I assume the trip will also use up most, if not all of our 3000 mile a year limit on the insurance.

Will monitor the thread and may wish to join in due corse (deliberate).

Tim

[rutthenut]

Originally posted by guy mayers
How's the soundproofing in your car these days and does it have a heater yet?

Nope, no soundproofing ever fitted, and no heater matrix either. I did use a small electric type unit on occasions to try and clear the screen, but it didn't achieve a great deal.

I do remember scraping ice of the inside of the screen though.

And having a nice alloy gearknob is great in real cold weather, driving without gloves (no, not even any string-backed ones!)

Alternatively, how about Chris & Lauren coming along as well!?

Not sure either of them would actually want to - for various reasons. Chris might not like the idea of being a passenger through mountain sections with me driving :eek:
Whereas Lauren might (?) just have a bit more sense than to go along on what could be such a male-dominated event!

She would probably be more hopeful of driving on such an event, if she passes her test and can get an affordable car by then (Nico's offer may work out just a bit too expensive for a novice driver, don't you think?)

Hope to see you at the weekend,

[rutthenut]

Originally posted by Swamprat33
I assume the trip will also use up most, if not all of our 3000 mile a year limit on the insurance.

I think that most of the classic car type policies with a mileage limit do not charge all that much extra to increase from 3000 to 5000 miles in a year - but that may well be an old view now.

One more thing to check on when renewing or investigating insurance costs I guess.

[guy mayers]

The last time I enquired about increasing the mileage limit from 5000 to 7500 the extra cost was about £25.
Guy

[David May]

Yes, I'm certainly in on the run, although I'm not sure how much free time I'll have to stay around. (Won't be makng Abingdon this year.)

Dave May

[SUSIT]

Hi all, top of the pile again. I know it gets repetetive however seeing as how it was a topic discussed at stoneleigh did a date get set or am I jumping the gun again?

Stephen

[Jerry B]

Steve

The trip was certainly discussed at Stoneleigh, but no date was set. I think everybody is happy with early April and we just need to sort out French holidays etc.
What was raised however was the point that if we want to do the trip in a week, we will have to drive 600-650 km a day which will be quite a effort especially in the mountains. I think we will either have to gain a day or cut some of the route out, perhaps some of the return leg to Monte Carlo, which is some of the earlier stages run in reverse.

Those of you from bonny Scotland will take at least 2 extra days anyway !

Do we want to drive the full monte route or are we happy to drive most of the classic stages?

[guy mayers]

Saw on 5th Gear tonight that it's the 40th anniversary of the Mini winning the Monte Carlo - we're no going to run into a pile of them recreating the route and slowing us down are we?
Guy

[SUSIT]

Guy
I once followed a well driven mini up the East side of Loch Lomond, tight and twisty I was in a 2300 magnum with all sorts of mods to engine and suspension. After the thrashing I got I vowed never to take on a mini again:)

[shaun]

French Holidays for 2005 appear to be :
Easter Sun 27 March
Bank holidays 1,5 & 16 May

In the ideal world it would probably be a good idea to avoid the week before + week after Easter and the first two weeks of May. Weather in Feb can be a bit extreme, having said that it snowed yesterday and is still visable on the lower hill(1000M)

I would sugest the following dates in 2005

1 – 18 March – attention weather
4 – 30 April
21 – 31 May

For the impatient the last two weeks of September and then October are quite calm. November tends to be a bit damp. Of course added into the choice of dates are rallyes that may be interesting to attend or use the same route – bit early to get dates on that though.

I have yet to look at the whole route but from what I have seen there is a lot to do. Those interested need to decide what parts to cover and also if each night will be spent in a different town/village. If you all decide to use here at Aubenasson as a stop over I need to know several months in advance – unless you have good tents.

Stephen, the maps and route will go in the post tomorrow and can take between two days and two weeks.

[SUSIT]

Originally posted by shaun


Stephen, the maps and route will go in the post tomorrow and can take between two days and two weeks.

Thanks Shaun, replied to your email but got it returned a couple of times, Did it eventually get to you?

Regards
Stephen

[shaun]

Think I received the Email, costs for maps etc. Actually it arrived in triplicate - a few people are having trouble sending mails thru AOL, could be time to change.

[rutthenut]

Spotted a link from pistonheads.com, for a company that arrange interesting motoring trips

http://www.bonneroute.co.uk/


But if we were to involve someone like that, they would want to make an element of profit. On the other hand, they might be able to offer other discounts to offset that, and take on some of the complexities of getting all arrangements in place.

Better still if there are some individuals who can sort this out anyway - which does look like the case from this forum.

Cheers,

[Sando]

Hi
Just thought I'd bring this back up top the top again as it will be on us before we know it.
Any more thoughts?
cheers
Rob :cool:

[shaun]

I have been a bit snowed under with work(poor excuse I no) so have not spoken to the local rally commitee but if I understand correctly:

If you organise an offical FFSA non speed event, local clubs can refuse your passage through "their" patch, which is what happen with a British clone of the historic rally Monte carlo one year.

A group of Stratos Enthusiasts can drive their cars on European roads respecting the various laws which are imposed, what number of cars will be tolerated is anyones guess - the cars would tend to attract some attention.

Official or not?

I am able to help out with some of the organising/B&B/workshop for sick cars/trailer for very sick cars. Susit has a copy of the route and most of the maps required, I think he will agree that the whole route is a no no.

What dates are prefered?

Wouldn't it be great to see it happen?

[John]

I'm ashamed to say this is the first time I have read any of the posts on this thread!
I am definitely up for renting a passenger seat on this trip if anyone is offering.

[Jerry B]

Right, lets get on and arrange something!
I think there are about 15 of us who have expressed an interest in this idea. I suggest that with Shaun`s agreement, we all stay at his place from Sunday 17th april to Wednesday 20th and go out and drive different sections of the route each day returning to Shaun`s each evening.
I still fancy the idea of finishing the last day in Monaco so we have the option of spending the Thursday night in Monaco after having driven the Col de Turini in the dark.
Of course, if this is going to be too expensive we always have the option of staying at Shaun`s that night aswell.
Let`s not make it an organised trip, let`s just be a group of friends out on a driving holiday in the south of France. We`ll have a relaxed schedule, and we can even plan each days route the evening before, once we have seen how much ground we can comfortably cover in a day. (back to plot and bash road rallying)
If Shaun can put up 20 of us then that`s 11 cars counting Shaun. I`m sure we will be happy to share cars, I know I am, and quite frankly I`d welcome someone else doing half of the driving. I think that for first attempt this would be a good number to stick to. I`m sure that there will be a few people drop out for various reasons,but hopefully we might have a few reserves to fill their places.

So, first question is : is everybody happy with that date?
secondly: can you put us up that week Shaun?
thirdly: who`s coming, I`m number 1

[Jerry B]

I seemed to run out of paper just then.
I also wanted to say that the rough itinery for the trip would be
Saturday 9th April - early morning crossing on the Euro Tunnel, stay part way down that night
Sunday 10 - complete journey and arrive at Shaun`s
Monday to Thursday - drive selected parts of the route.
Friday and Saturday return home.
This leaves Sunday to sort your shit out before going back to work,or for our Scottish bretheren to get back home.

Ideas and names please

[SUSIT]

If the date is going to be fixed at that then Iam in. I may be looking for somewhere secure in the deep south to leave my tow car and trailer. dont mind paying reasonable rates.

CAN YOU CONFIRM WHICH OF THE TWO DATES YOU MEAN? 10th or 17th

[John]

Count me in if anyone will have me in the passenger seat/co driving ( barring the lottery win beforehand).

[rutthenut]

Count me in at this stage - one car, with one or perhaps even two passengers!
Which means I may be looking for someone else to offer a seat (to a non-driver).

[Sando]

Yep still on for me, put me on the list, sounds a good enjoyable plan too.
I'd like to drive into Monaco as well, not sure about the dark though - I'd probably fall off the col!!!

I think Phil D maybe not on line at the moment, but keep him on the list as I know he is also still keen to go.

Jerry - hope you got the clutch cable ok? and Steve, sorry forgot to ring you back last night. send me PMs if you need to.
cheers
Rob

PS sorry my passenger seat is already taken....

[Jerry B]

Sorry, I did make a bit of a horlicks of the dates didn`t I. I meant the earlier week of the 9th to the 16th April 2005, but if people have a problem with this we could go the second week.

Rob, thanks very much for the cable, it arrived safely,and yes I have included Mr. D

I will have a passenger seat available, but we must keep one for Shaun unless he finds a car before the event.

[shaun]

I'll note the dates, need to confirm by around end Sept. As for finding a car, I am going more towards building one but then I already have 5. My wife does not think I need another.

[Marmott]

Please consider me as a participant, I have a copilot.
I have done some stages of a monte route with Lancia club France , they planned 2 stages each of 3 days , it was enough.
So I like the idea of agreeing the day before the following days plan.
I have a couple of events before the end of the year, including a biggy at Le Touquet , so my only proviso is that the car is ok!

cheers
Gary

[Jerry B]

Ok, I`ve spoken to Shaun and we are all going to stay at his gite the week of 9th to 16th April. We`ll have b+b and an evening meal when we can discuss all things Stratosand sample some of Shaun`s wine.
People on the list are;
Jerry Bailey
Rob Sanderson +1
Phil Dolby (+1 I presume)
Gary Lomas +1
John Rutter +1 (and possibly another )
Steve Struthers
Vince Abbott
David May
Andy Godfrey (+1?)
Nico + Tonya I presume
Tryphon Georgallides
Tim Page
John Davidson as a passenger, and possibly other passengers for John Rutter and Andy Godfrey. Panos also wanted to come.
Let me know if this is correct because if it is we are up to numbers already. If you want to bring a passenger and I haven`t put it on the list post a correction asap. Once the list is complete I will send a deposit to Shaun and then collect a small deposit from all of you.
Gary, can you sort out the best crossing deal for us because I know you use it regularily.
Steve, you can leave your tow rig at my place unless you find somewhere closer the the Chunnel.

We`re going!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Jerry B]

Sorry Guy, I forgot you (shame on me). Are you coming alone?

[SUSIT]

Hi Jerry make me + 1 at present I think my brother may come will know in two weeks
Stephen Struthers
Ps Thanks for the offer of space for my towcar & Trailer Jerry. Nico Joyce is asking if Tonia is going. My plan at the moment was for my brother to come down with me do the tour then he would fly home and Joyce would fly out and we would have a second week to tour home so I may need to organize my own chunnel ticket?

[guy mayers]

Hi Jerry, on a personal note I'd like to say that coming alone is not a good idea really....................
But I am still more than interested, especially as the dates are in the new holiday year and I may be able to persuade my significant other to come with me...............
And in a weird coincidence the phone rang and she likes the idea so you can probably count us in!!
Guy

[Stratos]

Put me down for this too.

Might have a seat spare, as not sure who will be passenger yet. Georgina doesn't like riding in the Stratos.

[John]

I am still very keen on this trip, so if there is a spare seat when everybody has worked out who they are taking then I would be pleased to come along.

[ANDYG]

Hello Jerry,
Count me in with a full car, i am fine with those dates, just waiting for Cal to confirm she is ok after checking her workload.
John, I'll keep you in mind if my plans go pear shape!

[Sando]

Hi Jerry check your PMs, I've done a bit of digging.
Anyone else looked into the crossings ?
We may need to pick this up again and firm things up to get a deal.
Rob :cool:

PS and Shaun said he needed to get things firmed by the end of Sept.

[SUSIT]

I would agree with Sando, however I may have to be the first to pull the plug. Got confirmation yesterday that we have bought a new house. Have 10 weeks to sell my own or we are looking at bridging loans, not a happy thought. New house in need of some work so going to take me away from rally car building. Would like to wait until Dec before making the call but realise things may need to be final long before that. On a happier note I will have a double garage and workshop plus space for a decent size trailer. Every cloud has a silver linning
Regards
Stephen

[rutthenut]

I'm still a definite for myself and Christine. Will try and confirm possibility of Lauren as an extra passenger shortly (if seat is even available).

[Jerry B]

Hi all, as you may have noticed I have been very quiet lately. Unfortunately I have been extremely busy trying to deal with the demise of one of our companies and trying to salvage another. Compared to these problems, the weather and the difficult harvest that the farm has experienced have been a doddle.
I believe that I have events fairly well under control at the moment, but I must not let myself become distracted for a few months yet. It is for this reason that I feel I should say now that I cannot devote any time to this idea at the moment and I hope that somebody else can take this forward. Of course, I feel bad about not being able to follow this through at the moment, but I hope you all realise that things must be pretty serious for me to have to step back. Indeed, I have been unable to get to any Stratos events for several months because of the demands placed on my time, and I feel that I have let Dave Watson down badly by not being able to support the Motorsport Challenge.
I stillhope to come on this event, and the last time I spoke to Shaun he was keen for us to stay with him, so please can someone take this on and make it happen.
I did notice in Classic and Sportscar the advert for the Historic Monte, perhaps they would let us use their route or a maybe a previous competitor could supply one.
Sorry for the cop-out, but things are pretty serious and there may even have to be a 9/10`s built car for sale soon. The trouble is that in the big picture this is just pissing in the sea. (As I said to a gathering of staff recently "we`re pissing into the wind now and we are goint to have to piss harder")
Apologies for letting you down and I hope to see some of you soon.

Jerry

[Sando]

Guys, I'm sure you'll all agree that we wish Jerry the very best and that we should do justice to his idea of doing this, Letting him concentrate on more important things for the moment whilst we keep plans for getting down there rolling.

I looked at Chunnel crossings the other day and the standard price is about £185 for a car and two passengers. We have an offer for about £40 off that price per car, but it would mean committing by the beginning of November, paying up front and being held to ransom for any changes. Probably a bit early for that? We could also get the slower Ferry for about £145 too.

Shaun I'm not sure if you've discussed accommodation pricing with Jerry or not? what was the max number of people you can fit in?

Also what other costs do we all need to think about ?
Obviously Petrol - loads of it.
Tolls? probably about £150 per car?????
Breakdown cover if you wanted
Oh and of course G&T Money for Monte Carlo? :)

cheers
Rob :cool:

[shaun]

English men are renound for their ability to piss into even the strongest of gales, some would argue that it was from drinking pints, some that it was genetic others have even competed to prove the point!

Didn't speak about prices, I will check next years tarifs and the rooms that are left, should be about 17 people, 5 in an overspil house and an option for 10 others in another Gite. Limiting factor is the number of cars so as not to be classed as a rally, just a holiday.

I can never remember the tolls but www.viamichelin.something should calculate that for you.

I think an overnight stop down near Monaco would be a good idea for the Turini night run but could be a bit expensive.

Think the dates were 9 - 16 April, I'll book some snow.

Shaun

[strat6v]

undefinedHello there,Will there be any space left for another car ?. Working flat out to finish mine at the moment.Hopefully complete for feb/march.

[rutthenut]

Jerry - hope you get things sorted, and that you find solutions to your problems. I know the sort of thing that you are going through and Strat stuff most certainly has to take the back seat; with high priority issues of family, home and work coming first.

I'd hope someone else in here will be able to pick up the effort on organising details of this trip at least for this initial stage.

I'm afraid I can't offer my time either, going from lack of work last year to having no real spare time at the moment, and wondering what will happen next. I am still committed to completing the next SEC newsletter, and we need a new editor to follow in that role too.

Cheers all,

[rutthenut]

OK, Lauren can't make it on those dates.

So just myself and Chris, in my car.

There was some mention of deposits being required 'by end September'.
Any details on that?

[shaun]

All rooms are still availble for the 6-9 April, price per room inc. breakfast are 1 person 36E, 2p 46E, 3p 65E and 4p 75E. Meal inc. wine 12E.

For the photos:
http://domaine.laplaine.free.fr/chambre.htm

Rooms:

A - 2 singles
B - 1 double + 1 single
C - 2 s
D - 2 s + 2 bunk beds
E - 1 d
F - 1 d
G - 1 d
J - 3(4) s

Deposit optional but avoids disappointment, tomorrow I will have my hand operated on and will be out of action for a while - thus the end of September "deadline".

I would guess that rooms will be still available for a few weeks, he says tempting fate. There is aways a backup plan of the gites in the village.

[shaun]

If I understand correctly there was a French 'law' passed in 1959 whereby less than 20 cars can travel as a 'tourist' group and not be required to apply for the appropiate authorisation. No form of competition is permitted and certainly no mention of the word 'rally'. 19 cars would be too much IMOP.

Oh, I can type left handed but the mouse doesn't quite do what I expect. Lets not loose interest on this one, it could still go ahead even at the last minute.

[SUSIT]

Hi Shun
If I read you correct there is a French law about numbers of cars traveling together, the magic number being 20. How big a gap between cars makes a group?

Hope the hand gets better soon
Regards
Stephen

[shaun]

20 stratos will get too much attention but good point on the gap. The law is to be 'revised' in 2005 but I can not see it changing, there are lots of 4x4 clubs and older car clubs that enjoy a Sunday drive out.

Hand much better but still have the contraption to stretch my finger at night, photo possible if you like that kind of thing.

[Sando]

Hi Shaun
hope the hand heals ok. Keep taking the Grape juice it'll make it feeel much better!

I wouldn't worry about getting 20 cars over, I'd bet we will only get around 10 or so when it comes to it. It will definitly be a non competitive, social drive, perhaps with a bit of red mist thrown in now and again...

As for deposits and pricing, I'm happy to collect some monies and get it over to you to hold the rooms, it may even be the best way to get the numbers finalised. I can also then look at the crossings too.

I'm still racking my brains on how to do it so that it is fair for everyone price wise. How about using the total price for all the rooms and dividing it by the number of people?
- including the evening meals?
I've not looked at the calandar properly but I think we said for 5 nights if we were going to move on to another stop further south. We could then come to a deposit figure for you / any other accom we will need and then I can add some in for the crossing too.

Thanks for your help
lets keep it rolling along
Rob :cool:

[Sando]

Hi Shaun, I've sent you a PM.
Guys watch this space for futher info soon.
Get your cheque books ready....

Rob

[guy mayers]

Sorry guys, the dates selected have clashed with an Audit I can't avoid, the client is unwilling to move things back so unless things change unexpectedly I don't think we'll be going. It will literally be a last minute decision for me but I'm 95% sure we won't be there.
Guy :( :( :(

[Swamprat33]

Hi, Very sorry, but I will not be able to make this event after all.
The dates clash with an existing trip that is already booked.
I was hoping that the trip may have been arranged for May 2005.
Very sorry, for having to drop out of what I am sure will be an amazing experience.
Cheers
Tim

[Sando]

:)
Hi All
With Jerry B's blessing I'm pulling together an itinerary for the Monte Run. Having spoken to a few guys last week and over the weekend at the NEC I'm fully confident now that this is on.
We will be leaving UK on Friday 8th April around Midday with a run and overnight stop at Reims on the way down to Shaun’s. On the return leg we plan to stop at Dijon and will return to the UK on Saturday 16th early evening.
Basing ourselves all at Shaun’s for six nights we will have plenty of opportunities to sample some of the best Monte stages in a relaxed and easy going trip.
There are enough beds at Shaun’s to fit in 8 or possibly 9 'crews' and I have verbal confirmation of 5 cars already.

Based on this I'm prepared to send down a deposit cheque to Shaun and also look again at booking the Eurotunnel crossings and the two stopover Hotels.
If you are serious about going on this please send me a PM as soon as possible and I'll send more details by return.

I will be looking for a £100 deposit (per car) to confirm a place and start booking things. (Euro tunnel best priced booking is fixed times and non refundable and also £30 to make changes, so this needs commitment! I will look at the more flexible fare but this will cost more) - I may need a second installment if we have to pay for Eurotunnel up front...
Petrol will be the biggest expense. Bank on 2000 - 2500 mile round trip. (from the UK)

We may be to fit in another car but this will depend on the bed situation, so its first come first served at the moment and if there are any reserves we'll try to juggle things to fit.

Cheers
Rob :cool:

[Sando]

Hi
Rooms at Shaun's booked, deposit paid.
First deposits 'trickling' in.......
Channel crossing will be booked when we have confirmed numbers.
Plans still fluid but getting firmer by the day.
Stops on the way down and back will be booked soon. Again subject to confirmed numbers.

Talking more to Shaun and Chris / Jane Smith it looks like a night further south would definitly be needed. Possibly a detour on the way back too. More news soon.....

Team so far

Shaun
Jerry B
Phil and CoPilot
Nico and Tonya
Chris and Jane
John and Christine
Rob and Steve W.
Andy Godfrey - hopeful
Vince Abbot TBA - Where are you Vince!!

David May meeting up with us down there
Tryphon meeting up with us down there

Get your confirmation deposits in!

Rob :)

[shaun]

There is a very local rally on the first weekend, I think there is a 23km ish night stage sat - well there was this year. More details later on in the year as French rules are changing for the worst, IMHO.

For interest:

http://www.asadrome.com/rallye_caillette.htm

[shaun]

Deposit arrived, rooms booked.

[Sando]

That's the first step done then! :)
Thanks Shaun, Sorry it was Pounds
Glad we beat the sail board boys to the draw though.
Speak to you soon
Rob :cool:

[Sando]

Hiya
Quick pre Christmas update. Only 15 weeks to go!
6 cars from the UK and 1 from Holland Confirmed.

Along with staying at Shauns, I've just got us a good all round deal using Eurotunnel at last, and 4 nights in Campanile Hotels in the right places, where we don't have to pay everything up front just yet. (around £215 pp inc crossing for us UK lot) so we are under the original estimated costs.

Everything is now booked up using the deposit money.

Look out for an email in the next couple of days with all the breakdown details and when we need to pay the remainder.

Merry Christmas
and a Monte new year!

Rob :)

PS John pull your finger out with the engine swap!
:p

[rutthenut]

Rob - fancy starting a new thread for any 'final' discussions on the Monte trip?
(topic 'Monte or bust' perhaps)

Or just continue with replies on this thread?

[rutthenut]

Some web links that may be of interest, relating to Stratos/Monte rallying:

http://www.myevo.com/RMC_00.htm
http://www.aukadia.net/alps/south/turini1.htm
http://cars.msn.co.uk/carnews/WinterStigFeb05/
http://www.rallyscene.com/cms/A_20208/article.html
http://www.btinternet.com/~robert.clayson/mini/monte.htm
http://freespace.virgin.net/skoda.chap/articles/monteday4.htm
http://www.wrc.com/page/RalliesDetail/0,,10111~12,00.html
http://www.specialstages.com/acatalog/limited_editions.html
http://www.aisastoryauto.it/fascicoli/110300/mono110300-18.php
http://64.233.183.104/search?q=cache:5U9UHVeUmhsJ:perso.wanadoo.fr/col-de-turini/fr/ES_turini/resultats_1976.htm+col+de+turini+stratos&hl=en
http://www.col-de-turini.fr.st/
http://www.traspi.net/notizia.asp?IDNotizia=5872 (Stradale T00700-TO)
http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=it&u=http://www.traspi.net/notizia.asp%3FIDNotizia%3D5872&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dcol%2Bde%2Bturini%2Bstratos%26start%3 D10%26hl%3Den%26lr%3D%26rls%3DGGLD,GGLD:2005-02,GGLD:en%26sa%3DN (translated)
http://rallye-racing.writernetwork.com/photo.html
http://www.lanciarally037.com/amarcord1.htm
http://216.239.59.104/search?q=cache:e9a3DTQfqX4J:www.stratosmania.com/Piloti/Munari/Munari_ING.asp+col+de+turini+stratos&hl=en
http://www.auto-graphisme.com/pstratos.html
http://www.toutelauto.com/montecarlohisto.htm