Lowndes Living Rally History In Europe
V8 Supercar star Craig Lowndes today set off from Glasgow,Scotland to re-enact the 1953 Monte Carlo Rally, which was the first everinternational motorsport campaign by an Australian car and team.
Lowndes, along with co-drivers Richard Davison (the father of V8 Supercar drivers Will and Alex) and Gary Poole,began their assault on the 2013 Monte Carlo Historic Rally by replicating thephoto taken of the original drivers Lex Davison, Tony Gaze and Stan Jones.
"It's great to be in Scotland and to be part of such amomentous occasion. A lot of preparation has gone into this commemoration soit's great to get in the car and start driving, which is what I lovedoing," Craig Lowndes said.
Before setting off the trio received a few helpful tips from thesole remaining driver of the original 1953 team, current team Patron, TonyGaze.
"Tony Gaze will be watching with great interest over the nextweek because he helped us to plan the best route to Monte Carlo and has beencrucial in our preparation," Project Leader Gary Poole said.
Another 1953 driver, Sir Stirling Moss also passed on some tipsabout the event.
"I hope the team will have as much fun and success as we did.I hope they dont cheat and use old tyre chains in the snow," Sir StirlingMoss joked.
The drivers also spent time with 1967 Monte Carlo Historic Rallywinner Rauno Aaltonen, who taught them how to best deal with the toughconditions of competing on ice in their restored 1951 FX Holden Sedan.
Support has also come from Federal Member for Wannon Hon. DanTehan, who is thrilled to see the project underway.
"On Australia Day this year, it is fantastic Australia isbeing represented in the Monte Carlo Rally for its 60th year anniversarycelebrations. I congratulate the team, and its sponsors and supporters, forhelping make this dream a reality and for flying the flag for Australia,"Hon. Dan Tehan said.
"As an honorary member of the team, I wish Gary and the teamthe best of luck, and I am sure that car lovers across the country will becheering them on as well."
Over 300 classic cars from around the world will take part in the3200 kilometre Monte Carlo Historic Rally, which will travel from Glasgow tothe French town of Valence through the snow capped French Alps to Monte Carlo.
Monaco's Australian Ambassador, Hon. Catherine Fautrier, willwelcome the Australian team when it arrives in Monte Carlo on 1 February 2013.
