DAFFODIL RALLY

On Sunday, August 26, right across the country, motorists in vehicles of all descriptions will take part in the annual Daffodil Rally for Cancer.

In Whanganui the Vintage Car Club is organising it, with all money raised going to our local Cancer Society.

“$10 per car,” says local organiser Peter Hardy. “$10 per motorbike, or scooter, or electric bike if you want to bring it. Everything works on this format. No experience is needed as all instructions will be given. If people want to use their car navigation system, that’s fine.”

Although it’s run by the vintage car club, Peter says he’ll be pleased to see any type of vehicle at all, including veteran, vintage and classic cars, of course.

“We’ve picked what is called a ‘scatter run’ format for this event. Last year I did three separate routes . . . this year I’ve expanded.”

At the start of the rally, drivers are given a map on which are numbered places, each worth a different amount of points. Each place corresponds with a clue or question, the answer to which can only be given by visiting the numbered place. It’s up to the individuals to decide where they are going to go to amass the greatest number of points in the shortest possible time and win the trophy.

“It’s ideal for bikes because in a normal rally you have to follow directions, which is difficult on a bike with a passenger. This way you determine where you’re going before setting off.

“You’ve got an hour and a half,” says Peter, and he’s certain no one could cover all the places and answer all the questions in that time. “And I’m not paying speeding fines.”

With the Vintage Car Clubrooms in Whanganui East being the starting point, vehicles are expected to travel in all directions.

“What I’ve also done is check you can’t use Google Earth.”

All vehicles will be numbered as for a normal rally.

“We had 95 cars last year and raised more than $2000. I’d be very happy to get 150 cars this year.”

Peter says they can take as many as turn up.

“We’re finishing at Cullinane School. They’ve offered their hall.”

The hall can take a good number of people and the venue means the rally prizegiving and social gettogether is not weather dependent. The club will provide tea and coffee.

Participants meet at Wanganui VCC, Patapu St, at 12.45pm. Entry forms from Peter Hardy 021 272 3444 or email pedorhardy@xtra.co.nz.

Everyone is welcome, no matter what type of vehicle you drive.