SUNDAY 27TH MARCH 2011
by Eddie Assad
Clive explaining the gymkhana
We met in the remote car park of the Hyperama where the action got underway with a short but tricky gymkhana. Each car was timed but we weren’t given our times as the time was to be incorporated into a formula that Clive had devised for the days activities.
Clive explaining the Tulip Diagram
We were then given our ‘rally sheets’ (correct term Tulip Diagram) followed by instructions on how the “clues” (directives) were to be followed and were assured that it was all “quite simple” to follow!!
So off we went, one at a time, with much enthusiasm and smiles on our faces!!! All seemed fairly straight forward until after 8 clues when I saw a yellow 356 coming back towards me. I was sure I was on cue and so continued to follow my sheet. Unfortunately 3 clues later I went straight instead of turning left. The next clue was after .5 of a mile and when I had done 4 miles I realized that I had better follow the example of the yellow 356.
Clive setting off a 356
Once back on track I realized that despite living in Johannesburg all my life I had never driven these wonderful roads and explored the great scenery they traversed. But back to concentrating on the rally sheet, confused by what Clive’s definition of what “quite simple” might mean!!!
After approximately 1 and half hours of concentrated driving fun we arrived at the second gymkhana venue where again our driving skills were tested against the clock on a testing course set out by Clive. A short drive later we arrived at our lunch venue – The Valley Lodge.
Andreas at the Gymkhana
Much discussion, debate and advice was passed across the lunch table as we enjoyed a fabulous buffet lunch. The ultimate winner for the day was Rob van Straaten. Congratulations Rob – especially as he was on his own – maybe that is an advantage!
Probably the most significant piece of advice was that next time we do this fun run the men should put their car keys into a hat and the wives/girlfriends should pick a car key and then be the co-driver for that day. In this way we can avoid rising temperatures in the cars and expensive marriage counseling fees.
A big thank you to Clive and Tania for their hard work and enthusiasm in organizing the event and providing us with a really fun opportunity to enjoy our 356s and the South African countryside.
Early arrivals at the Valley Lodge
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