MORRIS MINOR RALLY 2008

The first Morris Minor Rally in 2008, arranged and sponsored by Classic Cars (Pvt.) (Ltd.) Pinnaduwa.

On Sunday the 27th of January we met at Rampath Hotel in Galle Fort. 20 cars and around 70 people. Two cars broke down on their way to Galle and did not come. Two were delayed on their way and drove direct to Pinnaduwa.

At 10.00 we had tea and a snack at the hotel. Hot stuff burning in my mouth.

I was driving a newly acquired 4-door saloon. It was a miracle that I managed. The clutch very difficult. Engine, carburettor and distributor totally worn out. The gearbox a “search and you shall find” loudly screaming that very soon it will give in. Worn out tyres with visible threads. Wheels repaired by welding. 30 degree free play in the steering. Hanging brakes. A car I would never use on the road in Denmark, but may be just like other cars in the convoy.

 

My car is to the left.

At 10.30 we drove in convoy escorted by the police through Galle town to Classic Cars in Pinnaduwa, around 12 km. It was a pleasure due to our police escorting and the convoy were intact all the way. Speed not over 30 km/h. The police men on their motor bikes were very efficient and good at leading the convoy through the traffic.
I think they enjoyed a relaxed job.
Good reaction from people along the route as we are used to.

In front of the convoy a company car with a banner. At rear our mechanic in a van with his tool box. At departure a Mini Moke joined, but it did not make it and was towed back home. All Morris Minors succeeded.

At arrival to the company premises the office building vas cleared and chairs arranged so people could sit down and listen to my words of wisdom. After riding my hobby horse for a long time, people were shown around in the company and the usual chat around the cars started.

 

Words of wisdom from the old man taken in with juice.

 

Showing around.

 

Now time for food – very tasty and very different to our dish.

 

No fork and knife needed for hot stuff.

 

Wherever Morris Minor Owners meet, they like to show their cars and discuss matters.

Around 15.00 most people had left and I could relax. It was a very interesting day and I learned a lot about the conditions for the Morris Minors, but hard work to be in the centre all the time.
The entire event was filmed and I will have an edited copy this week. It looked very dangerous when the photographer on the rear seat of a motorbike was crossing the convoy and the traffic and I look forward to see the result of his efforts.

This Morris Minor Rally was a success and we consider arranging a Rally again the 25th of January next year. If you like to see creative solutions put a mark in your calendar and start preparing in good time.
Part of the purpose of this rally was marketing. Only a few knows what we can offer. One of our news was the first pick up produced in Sri Lanka by us from a scrap 4-door saloon.

 

First pick up produced by Classis Cars.

We have put the rally video on YouTube. You can see it here.

Best regards
Anton

February 2008