Entries are now open for the Endurance Rally Association’s Road to Saigon event, which will take place between 4 February and 2 March 2018. The event is a new twist on the popular Road to Mandalay event held in 2015, and like that event has been designed by John Spiller with the aim of being a once-in-a-lifetime voyage.
The event will begin in Singapore, with the new route encompassing Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia before finishing in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Daily distances will range from 380km to 550km, and are designed to be challenging yet possible for new and experienced rally participants alike. The first twelve days will follow a similar route to the Road to Mandalay, diverging further into Thailand after Mai Sot rather than entering Burma.
Highlights of the route, which will pass through the Malacca Strait, the Gulf of Thailand and the Cameron Highlands, include World Heritage Sites, orchards and rainforests. Entrants will enjoy some of the finest scenery in South-East Asia during the four week event, making it an unforgettable trip for all who take part. A rest day in Kanchanaburi, the home of the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Hellfire Pass Railway Museum, will also provide plenty of entertainment. The finishing point will be the Majestic Hotel, on the banks of the Saigon River, with an awards ceremony for those having competed in medal sections.
Rally Director Fred Gallagher said: ‘We’re excited to take the formula which had worked so well for the Road to Mandalay in the past, and change it to include new sights and experiences. Our revised route will provide something new for established competitors without being too taxing for newcomers, and we anticipate that the entry list will fill quickly. We’re looking forward to the Road to Saigon becoming an established part of our events calendar.’
Entry is open both to vintage cars and pre-1977 classics, although all must be fitted with a tripmeter, GPS system, first aid kit and fire extinguisher among other essential long distance rally equipment. All drivers will require a full UK licence and International Driving Permit, though overalls and helmets are not required. Toolkits should be carried, and while drivers should be able to perform basic servicing there will be two support teams to help with any more involved repair work. Ideally the cars should have a range of 250 miles between fuel stops, though more frequent stops will be marked on the route book.
The entry fee includes sumptuous accommodation in the finest hotels that each rest point has to offer. Breakfast is complimentary, and evening meals are included for all participants on all bar rest days. On rest days, teams may wish to explore the local area. A choice of excellent restaurants will be available, and teams are invited to avail themselves of the finest in local cuisine. Hints and tips on rally preparation will be offered to teams taking part for the first time, or inexperienced teams in need of support.
For more information on the Road to Saigon or other Endurance Rally Association events, visit www.endurorally.com.