Rally novices, Angela Ohren-Bird (Driver) and Pamela Reid (Navigator), are to undertake one of the most grueling of rallying challenges, the 100th Anniversary run of the Peking-to-Paris Rally. The event starts in Peking on May 27, 2007. Not only is the pair driving in the event, but they are preparing their own car too. Reid explained their car choice, “We were restricted by the age of vehicle allowed, and the date it was first registered. Our 1960 Sunbeam Rapier series III was an ideal choice as it conformed to the age regulation. Mechanically it is very simple and that will be a significant plus as we have to service and repair the car as we go along.”
At this year’s Silverstone Classic weekend, the ladies met former Sunbeam Rapier driver, Peter Procter. Ohren-Bird remarked, “I have nil experience, so it has been tremendous meeting Peter, a man with so much experience of both preparation and driving skills. I have noted his comments and will certainly take them on board.” Procter’s words of advice were, “I have congratulated them in choosing the Rapier. In its time, it was a tough car and reliable too. As for driver and navigator, they should get as fit as possible and take every opportunity to rest and relax as possible. The co-driver should be allowed to drive the easier sections, allowing the driver to be as alert as possible for the harder ones. I wish them every success.”
Angela and Pamela are looking for sponsorship; they are trying to raise some £100,000 for the Save the Children Fund. For further details, please email Pamela Reid at pamelajreid@aol.com.
by Mike Jiggle
