Liège-Corse 2001

Liège-Corse 2001

Liège-Corse Poster (23 Kb)

Map of Corsica (30 Kb)

Visit the Event Web Site
Introductory Letter I
Introductory Letter II
Summary Regulations
Comments on the 1999 LIÈGE-TARGA-LIÈGE
Leg 1 & 2
Bulletin 2 - March 2001
Bulletin 2 - Competitor Information
Technical Tips for Preparation
Bulletin 3 - Start Details
"Live" Report from the '289 Register' entrants

Introductory Letter I

16^th September 2000

Dear specialist car enthusiast,

Please find enclosed details of the Guild of Motor Endurance 2001 event, the Liège-Corse Six Day Reliability Trial on the 21^st - 27^th April 2001

We hope the one week format of the Liège-Corse, rather than the two weeks taken for the longer endurance trials, will allow more specialist car owners the opportunity to experience this form of motorsport, especially as a competition licence is not required. Corsica is particularly beautiful in spring-time and the warmth of the island really invites an escape from the winter hibernation. Having carried out the first route recce in Corsica it would be an understatement to say the roads are amazing, they are breathtaking.

On past events any competition has been between those taking part and the tough route set by the organisers. For competition on the Liège-Corse we are introducing Regularity Sections, these are timed to the minute and involve maintaining an average speed (round a mountain called Corsica). Also there will be some entertaining manoeuvrability Special Tests, these will be timed to the second (including laps of a national kart racing circuit).

The Guild of Motor Endurance members that took part in the 20 hour Endurance Tour of Wales in May this year were told of the planned 8000km Endurance Trial to the deserts of Libya. The Road Book for Tunisia and part of Libya have been completed and although a great deal of progress has been made, including the plans for overnight bivouacs and fuel dumps, the destination of Libya has not been enthusiastically received by some Guild Members. We would therefore appreciate any feedback from those enthusiastic to take on this expedition in the future.

We hope that in the meantime Corsica for 2001 meets with your approval. As usual we have made every effort to include as much as possible for your entry fee. Basically it is £500 per person plus the return overnight ferry from France to Corsica. If you own a hand-built car it promises to be an event not to be missed.

We look forward to seeing you at the start in Spa and in Corsica, spring 2001.

Best regards,

Peter Davis.
Guild of Motor Endurance.

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Introductory Letter II
LIÈGE-CORSE
Six Day Reliability Trial

To the manufacturers and enthusiasts of specialist hand-built cars, welcome to the Guild of Motor Endurance Liège-Corse 2001 Six Day Reliability Trial.
We are pleased to announce this competitive test for specialist cars taking place on the 21^st - 27^th April 2001. Starting in Spa-Francorchamps, the legendary start of the long distance rallies of the '50s and '6Os, the route will take competitors south, via some renowned rallying roads, to Marseilles. Then overnight on the luxurious 'Napolèon Bonaparte' of the SNCM Ferryterranèe line, to the beautiful Mediterranean island of Corsica. The competitive element of the Six Day Trial will be concentrated in Corsica which has been blessed with some of the most dramatic rallying roads in the world. This is the home of the 'Tour de Corse' the French round of the FIA World Rally Championship. Those competing on the Liège-Corse will be able to experience at close hand many of these exciting rally stages.

As with previous trials the 2001 Liège-Corse promises to be a real test of car design and construction, specialist car performance and handling is about to have a new reference to distinguish the best. Once again it will be more than just the ability of the car, the skill and stamina of the crew will also be fully tested.

Crews once again will require the ability to maintain or repair their cars without back-up and have that special determination to keep going regardless. Those experienced in endurance will know what this means. Then at the end of each day the adrenaline will be washed down in the warmth of a Corsican spring evening at an idyllic beach side hotel. Here tales of the day's chase, and the proposed spectacular climb back through the field, will be elaborated upon. With the dawn comes the sound of spanners and engines being started, another day of squealing tyres and Corsican sun.

For 2001, endurance will play it's part, but so will the promise of the Corsican hospitality allowing a more relaxed, if not challenging, way to prove your car. The breathtaking mountain roads of Corsica, with it' s maze of relentless bends, offers a tarmac challenge for the very best specialist cars in the world. The Liège-Corse will have Timed Regularity Sections and Special Tests and to the winner will go the laurels. Some crews will also be competing for class positions separated by capacity: up to 1000cc, to 1600cc, to 2000cc and over 2000cc. Also there is a new category for Period Sports, Sports Racing Cars and their Replica's, if the thoroughbreds are going to be driven as they were in their day, the winner of the 2001 Liège-Corse may well be a hand built car from the past.

There are presently one hundred and fourteen members of the Guild of Motor Endurance, having attained their membership by finishing a previous International Endurance Trial. Those that took part in the 8000km Liège-Agadir-Liège in 1997 and the 7000km Liège-Targa-Liège in 1999 should have an idea of what's coming, even for them, the incredible Corsican roads may come as a shock. With little traffic on the roads, the truth is, the roads in Corsica are a drivers paradise.

If you have built a car, or own a hand built car, and you are new to endurance motoring, this six day trial offers an wonderful opportunity to test your car's performance. A competition licence will not be required. Alternatively, if your idea of enjoyable motoring is less committed, just completing the Liège-Corse route could be a worthwhile objective.

If you are interested in competing and wish to receive an entry form and regulations or be placed on the mailing list for further information, please contact:
Guild of Motor Endurance, Craycombe, Fladbury, Worcestershire, WR10 2QS, England.
Tel / Fax: +44 (0)1386 861400 eve tel: +44 (0)1386 45556 (7-1Opm)

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Summary Regulations
1. The Event:
The Liège-Corse is a Six Day Reliability Trial, an International Competition open to hand built Specialist Cars. It will take place from the 21^st to the 27^th April 2001

2. The Organisers:
The Guild of Motor Endurance are organising the event in association with Evesham Motor Club.

The Liège-Corse is a Clubmans event organised under the General Regulations of the UK Motor Sports Association and the International Sporting Code of the FIA with ASN authorisations from the Royal Automobile Club of Belgium and the Federation Francaise du Sport Automobile.

The event will be run under a dual permit issued by the UK MSA, as a 'Touring Assembly' for Belgium and France and 'Road Rally' in Corsica.

3. Provisional Itinerary:
September 2000
16 Sat: Entry list opens.

December 2000
31 Sun: Close of early entry discount.

March 2001
31 Sat: Closing date for entries.

April 2001
21 Sat. 14:00: Signing-on and Scrutineering.
21 Sat. 19:00: Scrutineering. finishers.

21 Sat. 20:01: Leg 1, Car 1, Liège-Corse Start.
22 Sun. Overnight hotel southern France.
23 Mon. 08:01: Leg 2, Car 1 starts.
23 Mon. 19:00: Cars onto ferry, Marseilles.
23 Mon. 20:00: Ferry departs Marseilles.
24 Tue. 07:30: Ferry arrives Bastia.
24 Tue. 10:01: Leg 3, Car 1 starts Bastia.
25 Wed. Leg 4: start / finish Ajaccio.
26 Thu. Leg 5: start / finish Ajaccio.
27 Fri. Leg 6: start / finish Ajaccio.
27 Fri. Liège-Corse FINISH and prize-giving.

27 Fri. 19:00: Cars onto ferry Ajaccio.
27 Fri. 20:00: Ferry departs Ajaccio.
28 Sat. 07:30: Ferry arrives Marseilles.

4. The Route:
From the Start at Spa Francorchamps, Belgium, the 4000km route will travel south though France and include some legendary rallying roads on the way to Marseilles, then an overnight ferry crossing to the Mediterranean island of Corsica with it's superb mountain roads.

All roads used will be asphalt. Night sections will be included.

5. Eligible cars:
Any three or four wheeled hand built car.

Category A: Specials.
i.e. Non-production cars built as a one off, including Historic Specials.

Category B: Kit hand built cars.
i.e. Cars supplied by a manufacturer in component form for self-assembly and eligible for Single Vehicle Type Approval.

Cars in this category will be divided into classes by capacity: up to 1000cc, to 1600cc, to 2000cc and over 2000cc

Some motorcycle engined cars in this category may be re-classified according to BHP.

Category C: Replica's & Sports Racing Cars.
i.e. Period Sports, Sports Racing Cars and their Replica's.

Category D: Production hand built cars.
i.e. Hand built cars supplied by a manufacturer with Low Volume Type Approval. Cars such as TVR, Lotus, Marcos & Morgan.

6. Vehicle Requirements:
Mandatory: seatbelts, warning triangle, fire extinguisher, first aid kit and tow rope.

Because of the competitive nature of the trial and the dramatic landscape of Corsica, rollover bars and crash helmets are highly recommended, especially in open cars.

Lights: maximum four forward facing beams.

Noise: Excessive noise will be monitored and could result in exclusion.

Each entrant is responsible for presenting a well prepared, roadworthy vehicle at the start.
Competitors should be suitably competent to maintain their car throughout the event.

All cars must have a road fund licence, certificate of roadworthiness, (i.e. MOT for UK) and insurance, including a Green Card to cover both drivers.

Liège-Corse identification plates and numbers will be provided for each car, these are to be attached at the front, rear and sides and must be visible throughout the event.

7. Eligible Competitors:
Maximum of two crew members per car. Entrant must be first driver. Both members of the crew must be licensed and insured to drive the car entered on the public road. Any nationality. A competition licence is not required.

Competitors must be members or associate members of the Guild of Motor Endurance and members of an invited MSA Affiliated Motor Club. Membership cards will be checked at the start.

No one driver may drive for more than two hundred miles without rest or relief.

8. Entries:
Up to 70 cars will be accepted. Start numbers (i.e. starting times) will be allocated to entrants in order of receipt (on the official entry form and accompanied by the entry fee).

The entry fee for each car is £1200 sterling. After the 31^st December 2000 this rises to £1350. This includes: bed and breakfast, for two sharing a room, at a hotel in southern France; three nights bed, breakfast and evening meal, for two sharing a room, at the Coralia Club Porticcio Marina Viva beach-side hotel in Corsica; rally plates/numbers; Road Book and prize-giving.

The entry fee also includes the return Marseilles to Corsica overnight ferry crossing. Longer cars may incur an additional charge.

Those entering early will have the best options for cabin accommodation i.e. Cabin with WC and shower included.

The entry list will open on 16^th September 2000 and will close on the 31^st March 2001.

The Organisers reserve the right to accept late entries or refuse entries without giving any reason. Late cancellations of entry will be refunded at the organisers' discretion.

9. Teams Entries:
Teams are invited to enter to demonstrate their combined ability and optimise their resources with spares and assistance. Teams of three cars may be entered up to 'Signing on' at the Start.

A Team will can only consist of three vehicles formed in any one of the following categories:
Works, Make, Owners Club, or as individuals.

The Team entry fee is £10 per car.

10. Navigation:
A Road Book giving navigational instructions will be given to each entrant at 'signing on' at the start of the event. The route instructions will be straightforward with Tulip diagrams and distances shown in kilometres.

A distance measuring trip meter will be required, the type with an average speed read-out is permitted. Brantz trip meters are available at a 10% discount for competitors (Contact: Geoff Crossland, Brantz Tripmeters, 01943 880499).

General maps will also be required, Michelin 214 Belgium, 989 France, 90 Corse, as reference.
(The Map Shop: 01684 593146).

11. Controls
The event's itinerary will include Regularity Sections, the required average speed may change during a section depending on the type of road. The average speed will not exceed 50 km/h. Regularity Timing Controls will be undisclosed. Controls will be identified by a yellow board (start of Control Area) and a red board (Control point). Some routes will include Passage Controls to establish the prescribed route is being followed.

12. Timing system:
The event will be run to Scheduled Time, i.e. the actual time of day each competitor is required to be at any specific point. Penalties for being early and late will be in minutes and seconds.

13. Responsibilities:
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
All motor sport is potentially dangerous.
The Liège-Corse presents a demanding challenge to competitors and uses roads which may be hazardous. Competitors should not enter unless they accept that there is an element of risk to themselves and their car.

It should be born in mind that although the Liège-Corse is a competitive event, with timed Regularity Sections requiring an average speed to be maintained and timed special tests, these are intended as added entertainment to what is basically a 'Touring Trial'. Those experienced in rallying should not expect this to be a serious Road Rally.

Entrants should be aware that although most roads are good tarmac, some mountain terrain will include damage-repaired tarmac and cars should be driven accordingly.

The onus is on competitors to drive carefully and safely at all times. The organisers accept no responsibility whatsoever for any accident or injury befalling competitors and do not undertake to provide rescue or assistance of any kind. All competitors will be required to sign the indemnity printed on the entry form and at signing-on.

Where the route crosses mountains, temperature and conditions should be considered: i.e. weather equipment for open vehicles and suitable clothing.

14. Assistance:
Assistance or backup vehicles are not permitted. Crews and teams are required to be self sufficient throughout the event.

Every effort will be made by marshalls to follow the route, and where time allows give assistance. However, it can not be guaranteed that all parts of the route will be covered and competitors should make every effort to extricate themselves from any difficulties encountered.

Assistance from team members and fellow participants is permitted. Local services should be called upon for help. The Liège-Corse is primarily about building or preparing a car capable of completing the route. It is also just as important for crews to be similarly prepared.

15. Fuel:
Particular attention should be paid to refuelling wherever possible. Fuel tank(s) capacity should be sufficient to cover at least 250 kilometres. If spare fuel is carried, it must be in the correct containers and secured. Fuel containers are not to be carried inside the cockpit.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure sufficient fuel suppliers are on route, the organisers can not be held responsible for difficulties encountered in obtaining fuel.

16. Advertising:
Advertising will be permitted on cars to assist with sponsorship, but strictly restricted to an area no larger than 620 sq.cm (A4) on each side of the car and separated from the Liège-Corse identification numbers and any event sponsors decals which must be displayed.

17. Insurance:
The organisers, through brokers experienced in motorsport competitor car insurance, are putting together insurance cover for those taking part in the event. Competitor car insurance and vehicle breakdown and repatriation insurance, are not included in the entry fee. Personal Travel and Medical Cover are recommended.

Competitors are responsible for ensuring that they are fully covered by insurance during the event, as required by the Road Traffic Acts of the countries visited. All drivers will be asked to sign a declaration to this effect. They will also be required to sign a declaration on their entry form indemnifying the organisers from liability.

18. Postponement or Cancellation:
The organisers reserve the right to cancel or postpone the event or any part thereof should circumstances arise which make such action desirable or necessary. If the event is abandoned for this or any other reason, at any time, the organisers reserve the right to retain a proportion of the entry fee to cover administrative costs incurred to that point.

19. Guild of Motor Endurance Membership:
Finishers of the Liège-Corse will be bestowed full membership of the Guild of Motor Endurance.

20. Awards
Competitor achievement medals.
The Liège-Corse Team Trophy.
Trophies to: the outright winner and runner-up.
Category winners and runners up.
Category 'B' class winners and runners up.
Spirit of the Event.
Ladies Trophy.
In each case there will be two trophies per crew.

21. Officials:
Clerk of the Course: Peter Davis.
Secretary of the event: Carol Bury.
Scrutineer and Steward: Dave Boyles.
Chief Marshall: Ken Puttock.
Marshalls: Nigel Stephens, Graham Tibbs, Alan Blissett, Peter Hall and Ben Hall.

Guild of Motor Endurance, Craycombe, Fladbury, Worcestershire, WR10 2QS, England
Tel. / Fax: +44 (0)1386 861400, Tel eve (7pm-l0pm) +44 (0) 1386 45556

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Comments on the 1999 LIÈGE-TARGA-LIÈGE
Thank you for all the comments on the 1999 LIÈGE-TARGA-LIÈGE, here are some of them.

'Here's to many more endurance's, thanks for a great time.'
Francie Clarkson, Caterham.

'On a scale of 1-10 this event has been at least 20. I have enjoyed every minute of it, the roads were wonderful to drive, your attention to detail excellent, count me in for 2001'
Roger Williams, Suffolk SS100.

'Despite the warnings from you! it was worth every moment, I cannot fully explain the thanks for the greatest driving adventure in a Petrol Heads life. It was worth every minute.'
Charles Sterling, Mazda Rotary Striker.

'It's been a fantastic trip and without the difficult bits it wouldn't have meant nearly as much to have taken part, I'll never forget this whole event, it truly has been great fun and I will be back for more.'
Dr Alex Wong, Caterham.

'Having agreed to come on a drunken New Years eve day I have to admit it's been the best fun (in a car) I've had in years! Definitely there for the next one.'
Dr Nicky Kendrick, Caterham.

'Look Forward to 2001'.
Mark Fisher, Fisher Fury.

'It's been an experience of a lifetime, and I for one think the AA could learn something from your Road Books - Great! Endurance was the word, what a wonderful collection of roads you found for us.'
Paul Willetts, Jester.

'What can we say - it was a fabulous 2/52, I wish I had your organisational skills - we take our hats off to you! Anyway count us in for 2001 - 3^rd time lucky we hope.'
Nicky and Bill Davenport, Lomax.

'Having thoroughly enjoyed this event we look forward to the next, Let us know about the next one SOON!'
Chris Pecover, GCS.

'We didn't quite make the 'mile high club' but had a bloody good time trying - put us down for 2001 and we'll have another go! Thanks for a wonderful experience.'
Gillian Jerden and Alex Duguid, GTM.

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Leg 1 & 2 - Spa Francorchamps to Marseille
Leg 1. Cars will leave the Start at the Place Royale in the centre of Spa Francorchamps from 8pm. The Liège-Corse posters will have been up all over town and there will be a crowd. Competitors depart and head for Eau Rouge, the curve taken in the evening light, it's the beginning of the road south. Whilst newcomers will be settling into the pace and acclimatising themselves to the tulip diagrams and kilometre readings in the Road Book, and now and again dividing the distance by the average speed to cross reference whether they are on schedule or not, the experienced crews will be falling into an old routine based on the chaos theory. They will know whats coming, not just what is mentioned here, but the roads in-between, reaching Marseille and the boat will be an endurance event on it's own.

As the route unfolds through the night, the appreciation of the increase in the challenge of running at night is revelled in. The quoted requirement for a fuel range of 150mls (240km) is also tested through the night, and the use of small autoroute link sections makes sure of a 24h supply, and allows the best rally roads to be reached in the time.

The Liège-Corse route through France includes the Cote de Turckheim Hillclimb which climbs 919ft in 3.697miles. The hour long breakfast stop at 5.30 in the morning is reached via a road that had changed into a ski slope on the recce.

Included in the itinerary is a morning break at the amazing Franco Sbarro Specialist Automobile Exhibition. The brochure could show so much more. The trouble is, there are too many weird and wonderful vehicles to see in the time. Concept cars are everywhere, and a variety of GT and race cars.

The road continues winding south, and by one o'clock crews will be ready for the lunch stop. Later, with the relief of the overnight stop at Aix les Bains in sight, the shadow of Grand Colombier draws each car towards it.

The spa town of Aix les Bains is a lakeside resort synonymous with rallying, long used as an overnight base for weary rally crews. For Liège-Corse competitors the luxurious Le Domaine d' Aix-Marlioz hotel set in it's 25 acres of parkland offers more than just an opportunity to recover. The first car will be clocking in at 4 o'clock in the afternoon, the thermal pool and facilities merely an opener prior to the cuisine that will be served in the restaurant come the evening.

Leg 2. With the worst over, Marseille won't seem too far away, though not missing the boat may tempt some competitors to miss controls ahead. Monday morning and competitors hit the tarmac running, onwards and upwards. Leaving Aix les Bains crews take on the legendary Mont Revard rally stage. Mont Revard presents a daunting sight, it's shear face hides just a sinuous road that eventually reaches the top, all be it, snow covered at the time of the recce.

Following a short blast, the road climbs again, weaving across the Vercors plateau and through the magnificent gorges leading competitors further south. By two o'clock crews will be back to sea level and ready for another lunch stop. Revived, it's off again. Mount Ventaux comes towards you unawares, the rugged top is white even when there is no snow.

The climb to reach the control at the summit at 6000ft shouldn't be missed. Just as the nose of the car begins to incline you come across marshalls at a control on pair of white lines painted across the road. Mount Ventoux is no longer holding the attention. The sort of moment when you glance at the button at the top of the analogue stop watch clipped to the dash board. The next 10kms of tarmac is a serious rally stage. Decorated with huge graffiti the names of drivers and rally teams painted to encourage their heroes. The corners have double Armco, serious stuff all the way. After the 10 km stage there is still 1500ft to climb before you are welcomed into the control at the summit. This is the last control before the ferry and after the down hill run, it's top gear to the port of Marseille. Corsica in the morning.

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Bulletin 2 - March 2001
Welcome to Bulletin 2 of the 2001 Liège-Corse Six Day Trial. Competing in this endurance trial through Belgium and France to Marseille and Corsica promises to be a most memorable experience. Forty-seven impressive looking cars are entered and with the schedule now set for fifty cars, only a few places are left to be filled by the closing date of March 31^st.

With the island of Corsica being the back-drop of the competitive part of the event, there should be some interesting battles amongst the many manufacturers represented. Viewing the entry list shows the emergence of more powerful cars being entered. The results could well show which cars have the best overall package, handling, power to weight ratio, braking, reliability, and the vital ingredient, the best crew.

To date the sportscar manufacturers represented include: Banks, BRA, Brightwheel, Buckland, Caterham, Fisher, GCS, Ginetta, GTM, Hawk, Lotus, Liège, Lomax, Marlin, Martin & Walker, Pilgrim, SSC, Suffolk, Sylva, TRAC, Transformer, TVR and Westfield.

Competing with a car that you have designed and built yourself always adds to the challenge. The Specials entered will be interesting to compare.

There is a splendid variety of engines in the cars so far entered: Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Datsun, Ford Kent, Pinto, Zetec, V6 and Cosworth, Jaguar, Lancia, Leyland, Mazda Rotary, Moto Guzzi, Reliant, Rover K's, Lotus, and V8's, Sunbeam, TVR & Vauxhall.

The route recognisance from Spa Francorchamps to the port of Marseille has now been completed, the 900 mile route south will be a rewarding challenge. There is never any attempt to make the route difficult for competitors, taking a wrong slot is just something that happens, those that have experienced an endurance trial before know this too well.

The 1999 Liège-Targa-Liège was a tough event and it was a credit to the crews that completed the difficult route on schedule. Passage control positions were not given to competitors, i.e. if competitors deviated from the 8000km route they could miss a control. What made it more difficult was, that if the average speed was not kept up, a control could open and close without them knowing it had been there.

On the Liège-Corse, on the road south through Belgium and France, all controls will be identified on the Route Card and Road Book. This will allow competitors more control of their average speed. In other words it will allow time to rest, and maybe have a coffee, without wondering if a control is just closing a kilometre down the road.

Being in a team adds another element to the camaraderie associated with these events. It is not just the advantage of sharing spares, expertise and the important planning that makes a team of three cars attractive. The event timing allows team members to always know where another member of a team should be. It is a big enough feat to bring one car to the finish, a team of three cars finishing is even more impressive. The winning teams in the past have been the Lomax Team on the Agadir and the Fisher Fury Team on the Targa.

The Fury Team are together again, they will be up against a strong SS100 team, and a team of Liège and Marlins. Mixed car teams have come together on previous events and with team entries open until the Start in Spa, they should feature again for 2001.

When Bill Dixon started building cars for a team for the '99 Targa', little did he know the determination members of Team Targa would put into finishing that event. They are building new cars, it's just whether they will be ready in time.

You have probably read it before, 'motorsport is dangerous', and although this event is not an out and out rally, at times it will require some serious concentration. Many of the roads are going to be demanding and there will be other road users. In remote areas they will be scarce, don't let this catch you out. What we do want is for it to be safe and everybody involved needs to play their part. Endurance is a compelling discipline and as any past competitor will acknowledge, one of the rewards of the accomplishment is the memory so hard earned. Yes, there is definitely going to be an endurance element on this event. The competitors that took part in the 20 hour endurance tour of Wales will know the format, i.e. each control will be open for half an hour for each car (unlike the hour, and 'reverse power to weight ratio' starting order as used on the 'Targa'). Alex Wong and the others with late start numbers, that kept up at the back, were real hero's on that event.

What will be different, is that on the Liège-Corse a marking system will be used similar to the points system used on some long distance rallies. At the finish at Ajaccio in Corsica, the car and crew with the least marks will be the overall winner. Crews should aim to enter a control while the control is open in order to keep a clean sheet. If a crew fails to reach a control, or approach a control from the wrong direction, or the control is closed when they arrive, 20 marks will be added to their tally. On the drive to Marseille, to discourage the average speed from being exceeded, any car entering a 'route control' before the due time will receive 5 marks. Corsica is the competitive part of the event, timed to the minute on regularities, and timed to the second for special tests. More details in the final instructions. Throughout the event cars may be subject to re-scrutineering, e.g. a failed light or horn incurring 5 marks per failure.

Remember, the mainland endurance section of the event, south to Marseille is non-competitive, i.e. just clock in at every control and drive onto the overnight ferry with a perfect score of '0'. Then as you settle down in your cabin for the overnight voyage, or the bar if you are just pleased to have made it to the boat, relax in the comforting knowledge that in Corsica the marks will be coming at you thick and fast.

The 50kph average on some roads, especially in the mountains, can be quite challenging to maintain, but overall it's more about keeping going steadily without being delayed. Just refuelling amongst fifty other sportscars can consume valuable minutes. Minutes which could have taken you some kilometres down the road. Taking a wrong turn and having to recover the route is another time consumer. A well designed car, carefully built, and methodically prepared, has the most going for it. For endurance the old adage remains, no matter what, sort it and catch up, being a day behind is not unusual, there is always another boat. Finishing is everything. Should you be unfortunate enough to break down and take to a hire car, unlike the Targa, you will not be permitted to continue on the Road Book route and schedule. It will be the beach for you.

Corsica in April should see an increase in adrenaline production and crews can be pushed to the limit. Although crew failure is not uncommon, it can get fraught being under pressure. Tiredness may be a problem on the first leg, the solution is to change drivers more often. If both members of the crew can no longer stay awake, pull over for ten minutes, it works wonders. Going off into the scenery happens, even when you are wide awake, ask the supremo Gordon Hick.

We are indeed grateful to the Burgermaster and Chief of Police for once again permitting Guild of Motor Endurance competitors to use the Place Royale for the Start of this Six Day Trial. We would specially like to thank the administration of the Spa Tourist Office in the Thermal building overlooking the Place Royale where the cars will be assembled.

Finishing a Guild of Motor Endurance trial is an achievement. For a car and it's crew to attain the Gold standard on the Liège-Corse it is going to require something special. Clock in at every control and the Gold standard will be achieved. Miss one control and you will attain Silver, miss another and it will be Bronze. To be classified as a finisher and achieve membership to the Guild of Motor Endurance, competitors will be required to finish the event, being the same crew and car that started the event, and clock in at each main control whilst they are open. Main Controls are the morning start control, mid-day control and evening finish control, each day.

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Bulletin 2 - Competitor Information
Please note the Corsica/Bastia re-start time has been amended (following ferry disembarkation). The re-start time has been moved forward one hour. Car one will now depart at 09:01 (previously 10:01)

Although the Road Book will be used for navigation, larger scale (1/200 000 - 1cm:2km) back-up maps covering the route south to Marseille are available: Michelin, 242, 243, 244, 245. These can be ordered from: The Map Shop tel: 01684 593146.

Please find enclosed form supplied by Alexander Forbes Motorsport Risk Services for RTA (Road Traffic Act) cover. This is motorsport insurance. It is required for every car competing and will give RTA cover for the duration of the event. The cost of this cover is £75 per car. The form should completed and returned to Alexander Forbes Risk Services (formerly Bradstocks). They are motorsport insurers to the MSA (Motor Sports Association). Should you have any queries, please contact Dawn Luby email tel: 0161 2280721 at Alexander Forbes. Accident medical repatriation is also on offer at £25 per person.

Please send your completed forms together with payment to: Alexander Forbes Motorsport Risk Services, Hanover House, Charlotte Street, Manchester. M1 4FD. Please do not send the completed form to the event organisers, this will only delay your application.

Most insurance companies do not cover motorsport. If you believe your present insurance company is covering you for the duration of this event, you will be required to supply a letter confirming this to the event organisers (required prior to the start). Without exception, no car or crew will be allowed to start the event without the correct RTA cover. At the Start, current tax discs and MOT certificates will also be inspected. Please check these are in order. At the same time MSA affiliated car club membership cards will be inspected. EMC membership will be available at the start, should this be a problem.

On the last event, a few cars ran the gauntlet with the scrutineer, please make sure your car is roadworthy! and meets the regulations. There will not be a noise meter at the start, please check the silencer/s is in good condition and effective.

The regulation restricting cars to four forward facing beams has been lifted. It will still be necessary to switch off any auxiliary lights and dip headlights through villages and towns. At the same time please avoid noise such as revving engines unnecessarily at night.

If the noise inside your cockpit is high, consider an intercom, a motorcycle type intercom is an alternative. For those vital calculations remember a calculator (metric/imperial conversion type is especially useful). Check your map light works and there is a spare bulb. You are required by law to carry a spare set of light bulbs for your car.

Brian Byfield veteran of the Agadir and Targa sadly has had to pull out, his one good eye is no longer good enough for him to see to drive or read the Road Book. He would like you all to have his number (01684 575385) should you wish to ring him for a chat. While we are mentioning veterans, Dick Brenton has not been too well, he's fought back, as he does, and 'not having a co-driver' is stopping him taking on Corsica. Dick can be contacted on tel: 01564-794950.

At the Start on the 21^st April 2001 the assembly of fifty cars in the Place Royale in Spa will resemble a Specialist Car Show. Manufacturers may wish to advise potential European customers that their cars will be there.

If you are not arriving on the day of the Start at Spa on Saturday 21^st April, and you are considering staying the night before in Spa, the brochure from the Spa Tourist Office enclosed may be of assistance.

The Tourist Office telephone number may be useful as it is right next to the start line: tel: +32 87 79 53 53 fax: +32 87 79 53 54.

Ian Hyne has kindly supplied an article from Kitcar-April 2001 by Gerry Hawkridge on rally car preparation hints. As with any preparation it is how far to go, just like the question, which spares and equipment should be taken and what should be left behind. Most sportscars have a pretty restricted carrying capacity and it's a difficult choice. For a team of cars it's not such a problem, they are able to distribute their required parts. Pre-planning can extend to having someone at home ready and able to forward-on any failed component on a 'next day delivery' to wherever you are broken down. This ploy has been taken advantage of before on previous endurance events.

Payments have been made to both the hotels and the SMCN ferry company. Any entrant cancelling their entry after 1^st March 2001 will have 50% of their entry fee returned, 25% after 31^st March.

Enclosed is a pamphlet of the Sbarro Specialist Vehicle Exhibition, competitors reach there on the morning of Sunday 22^nd. Also enclosed is the pamphlet of the overnight hotel (Sunday 22^nd) at Aix les Bains.

A competitor check list is enclosed.

Peter Hyne has put together a rally breakdown scheme for competitors on the Liège-Corse. This is for vehicle breakdown and recovery (repatriation) at £97.85 per car. A Personal Travel insurance is also offered at £16.95 per person. An application form is enclosed for competitors wishing to take up either of these options. For more information contact: Norton Insurance Brokers (Tel: 0121 246 6060)

We have been offered a group discount for the cross channel Shuttle. Unfortunately it requires all competitors and all cars to travel across the channel at the same time. With such variations in competitors' planned travel dates and times to the Start in Spa, it has not been possible to take advantage of this offer.

Most Entrants have been allotted their Start number (competition number), allocation as per the regulations. The A5 plastic competition number plates (front and rear) and A4 stick on door numbers will be sent out to entrants with the 'final instructions' closer to the event.

If you are reading this and have not entered and would like to take part, but are without a co-driver, or you are a co-driver that would like to be introduced to somebody with a car, please contact the organisers, tel eve: 01386 45556. Paul Willetts (01905 358719) co-drove on the Targa, he could be available for the Liège-Corse.

Entry form and regulations and other information on the Liège-Corse are on the internet

Also Alex Wong has a brilliant web site for Seven owners. On this site you can read competitor accounts from previous endurance events and view the many pictures. Alex has been busy starting up a track-days company, we wish him every success. Take a look

Nick Boyd who is entered in a Suffolk SS100 is looking for a second hand trip meter and sender, if you happen to have one for sale, please call him on: Tel: 01986 892043

As has been mentioned, from Spa to Marseille the only requirement is to clock in at each control while the control is open. Crews may wish to prepare for the regularity in Corsica and try to clock in on time.

From Spa to Marseille there will be a sweep vehicle following the whole route, the marshalls will only be able to give basic assistance, and as a last resort, a tow to the next village or town.

If you are travelling to Spa from Northern France use Michelin map 213, if you are following the autoroute (E40 all the way to Liège) be sure to by-pass Brussels. Follow autoroute direction signs for Liège (Luek) do not go into Liège continue on the E40 towards 'Aachen', then south on the E42 past 'Verviers' and off the E42 towards Spa.

So, it's back to the all important preparation of the car which is progressing so well..........

Guild of Motor Endurance
Craycombe, Fladbury, Pershore
Worcestershire, WR10 2QS. England
Tel eve: +44 (0)1386 45556
Fax: +44 (0)1386 861400
e-mail

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Technical Tips for Preparation
Success in motorsport starts with preparation. As a new batch of adventurers square up to the challenge of the Liège-Corse Six Day Trial, Gerry dishes out a few tips that could make the difference between triumph and tragedy.

With so much interest in such increasingly popular events as the Liège-Corse International Endurance Trial in April this year, I suppose it's hardly surprising that I'm being asked about preparation for such events. Obviously whatever car you take on such a demanding trip, you must do all you can to ensure it's well prepared and won't let you down. Sometimes it's better to use an old or proven car rather than a recently completed kit but whatever you choose, kit enthusiasts who have built their own car have an advantage - who could possibly know it better?.
The first thing is to draw up a complete checklist and then go through it on the car. Engine, gearbox, clutch, hydraulics, cooling, electrics and of course brakes. It's amazing how you can find an odd loose nut or bolt, cracked grommet, dodgy connection or loose union.
Try to standardise as much as possible on nut and bolt sizes, threads etc. Carefully go through the car and as you do so, put to one side the spanners you would need for a potential fix. You will hopefully find your tool kit can be much smaller than you thought.
You cannot possibly carry all the spares required to meet every eventuality but you can certainly be prepared for the most likely problems. The following is a suggested list to which you can add or subtract as you see fit.
Always try to mount spares near to where they will be required. It saves time emptying the boot, searching for spanners and spares and repacking. This will always speed up problem solving and if you suffer a problem in a timed stage, minutes and even seconds are important. Even more important is to check beforehand that spares work!
Fan belt. Why not pack the spare fan belt with the spanner needed to fit it in a plastic bag and tape it to a suitable area of the chassis or underbonnet area near to where it will be needed?
Cooling fans. Why not fit a manual override on/off switch on the dashboard just in case the thermo switch or control plays up?
Spare fuses. Tape spare fuses to the fuse box lid or in a small plastic box near the fuse box. Similarly tape a spare relay next to each relay in your loom.
In most European countries, carrying a spare set of bulbs is a legal requirement. You can save time by putting spare head and side lamp bulbs in a bit of foam and tucking them in the head lamp bowl behind the light unit. Rear bulbs can be put in a plastic bag and taped to the rear light units.
Attach a spare coil next to the existing one. If you overlap the mounting brackets you will only need one extra hole for the fixing. Check the wires are long enough to reach the spare unit and that the terminals are the same.
Spare spark plugs, leads, rotor arm and if applicable, points and a condenser, can be packed in a strong plastic bag and taped securely to the chassis, bulkhead. Alternatively, you could strap them down. The chances are that you have some items in the relevant area secured with spreader or penny washers. Make up some special ones to take straps or bungees etc. by welding on a hook or loop but you'll probably agree with me that it's better to take them off the car first! You could even replace them with special made-up brackets that look neater and more professional.
A spare front wheel bearing kit complete with sachet of grease, spare split pin and a correct socket can be wrapped in plastic and secured in a suitable underbonnet place. It's amazing how much boot space can be saved by storing things under the bonnet but the biggest advantage remains time if things are easy to get at when you need them. An emergency wheel bearing fix will have to do without the refinement of a torque wrench but a pry-bar slipped between two wheel studs will enable you to fit it tightly until it can be properly checked. This too can be taped to a chassis tube.
Fit a fuel cut-off tap immediately after the fuel tank and a filter before the fuel pump. As well as a handy anti-theft device, if your filter is blocked you can turn off the fuel whilst you clean it. Likewise if you need to replace a fuel pump.
It's always a good idea to take a spare fuel pump and if space permits to mount it next to the existing one. You could even plumb it in as we've mentioned before and then just fit a tap to switch pumps if necessary. At the same time you must clean and check your fuel system thoroughly making sure the pipe is well routed and not likely to chaff or rub on any moving components, that it is securely clipped to the chassis or body, that all unions are tight and that there are no leaks. Also make sure there is a good return spring on the accelerator and while you're at it, you've guessed - tape a spare one nearby.
Put your spare wheel in the boot with its well uppermost so as not to waste any storage space. Take a Finilec canister or similar product as well. If you use your spare, then at least you can get going again. Finilec actually seals small punctures in tubeless tyres. For tubed ones, a spare tube and patches is a must and don't forget the tyre levers.
Similarly a foot pump will be handy or one of the small electric ones that run off the cigar lighter socket or direct from the battery.
If you've got knock on wheels it's not a bad idea to drill a small hole, say 3mm, in the ear and lockwire them to the spokes to prevent them coming undone. Also, don't forget the wheel mallet. If you've got conventional bolt on wheels, it's always worth having a spare set wheel studs and nuts. Put them in a plastic bag in the spare wheel.
For cars with powerful engines it might be worth taking a spare universal joint for the propshaft if applicable or a spare CV joint with a sachet of grease. Again put them in a plastic bag and store them in the spare.
If the event involves night driving then add a pair of decent extra driving lamps wired correctly with relays. Make sure they are firmly mounted and don't wobble about. Also make sure the navigator has a decent interior map reading light which can work off the car battery and which leaves his hands free for holding the map and checking the route.
Spare hoses, water and petrol, are a good idea as well as jubilee clips. In addition radiator sealant and a bottle of water. If you carry a container for drinking water, it can be dual purpose. I'm sure your engine would appreciate a litre of cool, clear Evian given the crap that comes out of it!
Also on the fluid side, it's a good idea to take some engine oil, brake fluid and axle oil. You can transfer them to smaller plastic bottles for easier storage which must be secure to prevent spillages. A tin of brake fluid can be taped near the reservoir but make sure everything is clear of the exhaust.
Wrap starter motors, exhausts etc. in one of the available heat protective materials and if any wires or fluid pipes run near the exhaust, protect them either with insulation or a heat shield.
Things like sump guards, roll cages etc. are all fairly obvious and would certainly be necessary on serious rallies or when driving on loose surfaces is expected. For less strenuous events you must decide what you feel is appropriate or what the rules dictate. In any event, when driving open cars, crash helmets are always a prudent precaution.
Consider your passenger or navigator's comfort. Padding on roll bar support tubes on door hinges and dashboards can make all the difference. In open cars, consider wind deflectors. Make sure you have some good, easy storage in the cockpit for all the maps and route books. In an open car it's amazing how easily these things can blow away at speed. Make up a pocket or pouch that is secured in the footwel or by the transmission tunnel. Also find a place to store a bottle of water where access is easy without removing seat belts etc.
A decent Halda or Brantz rally meter is pretty well essential for accurately following tulip directions and make sure the reset button is within easy reach for the navigator especially if you have four-point harnesses.
Make sure you have good, strong and easily accessible towing eyes at each end and that a tow rope will not damage adjacent bodywork.
Make sure the exhaust is mounted as high as possible to maximise ground clearance on rough roads and make sure all undercar cables, pipes and wires are clipped securely and safely out of harm's way.
I could go on for ever with a list of handy things to take but you have to decide what is appropriate for the event you are contesting as well as where it will go. If it's in mainland Europe you'll never be too far from a garage with a full range of spares. If it's destination Tunisia, then you wont be.
Similarly, you can take too much. The best advice I can give is to suggest everything and let you pick and choose as you see fit but it all comes back to preparation. If you've done a thorough job, there's no reason why the car should encounter mechanical problems. However, that simple outlook doesn't take account of Sod's Law and all you can do is be like a Boy Scout and Be Prepared. Good luck.

In most European countries it is a legal requirement to carry spare bulbs, a warning triangle, a fire extinguisher and a First Aid kit. They are also vital for any event and make sure they are good quality jobs. Then there are:

Duck tape	Jack
Cable ties	Wheel chock
A few nuts and bolts, preferably Nylocs.	Spare throttle cable
Exhaust clamps	Any special gaskets
Exhaust rubbers	Tube of gasket sealer
A length of tube for syphoning petrol	Brake pads
Spare wire cable and terminals	Additives for cheap petrol
Jump leads	Decent penknife with a can opener
Bungee cord or rope	Necessary tool kit
Plastic sheet	Good torch or battery fed light
Tube of hand cleaner	A few pairs of latex gloves

To all those entering the Liège-Corse, as well as any other event, I wish you the very best of luck and hope these suggestions get you thinking along the right lines. I also hope you don't need to rely on any of it and that you have trouble free run.

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Bulletin 3 - Start Details
Dear Competitor,

Please find enclosed LIEGE-CORSE entry list in Start Order and street maps of Spa.

Competition numbers will be issued at the start, and are to be fitted prior to scrutineering.

The door side numbers are stick-on A4.

The front and rear numbers are on A5 rigid 2mm plastic with ‘to-cut’ radius at top, sample enclosed.

Please consider suitable mountings or brackets to secure the plates facing front and rear.

Those that have taken up the Alexander Forbes Motorsport Risk Services for RTA (Road Traffic Act) cover will receive their cover at the start from the organisers.

Would those competitors that have had letters of confirmation from their insurers, that they are covered for the event, please bring the letters with them to the Start.

Should you have any queries, please contact Dawn Luby email LubyD@aforbes.co.uk tel: 0161 2280721 at Alexander Forbes.

Please make sure you have your competition insurance arranged.

Please do not forget your MOT certificate, or your Affiliated Club card if not Evesham Motor Club.

A list of Teams entered will be displayed at the Start, team entries will be received up until the Start.

Should you wish to leave a contact number for the Hotel Coralia in Corsica, it is:
Tel: + 33 4 95 25 25 25 Fax: +33 4 95 25 25 00

The contact number for Sunday night, 22nd April in France, at the Hotel Le Domaine d’ Aix-Marlioz is:
Tel: + 33 4 79 61 77 77 Fax:+33 4 79 61 77 00

There will be a "Drivers Briefing" before the Start, after which the Road Books will be issued.

Confirmation of the time-table in the Regulations:

April 2001
21 Sat. 14:00: Signing-on and Scrutineering.
21 Sat. 19:00: Scrutineering finishers.
21 Sat. 20:01: Leg 1, Car 1, Liège-Corse Start.

If you fail to make the start, or have problems and are running late, please ring the Tourist Office next to the start line, the telephone number is: tel: +32 87 79 53 53 fax: +32 87 79 53 54.

Guild of Motor Endurance, Craycombe, Fladbury, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 2QS. England
Tel eve: +44 (0)1386 45556 Fax: +44 (0)1386 861400 guildofmotorendurance@hotmail.com

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We have gathered two 289s together - the trusty steeds of David Pilbeam (Hawk 289, start nr. 15) and David Butcher (BRA 289, start nr. 12), ably helmed by none less than Graham Fry and Andrea Butcher.

Fifty vehicles have confirmed entry in this event, and permission has been granted by the ferry company to use the reduced-price block-booked ticket for a later return to Marseilles, allowing you to stay for longer on the rock of Corsica, and explore those stunning roads and passes without the pressure of timed stages.

We will be attempting to update this web site "live" with pictures and a report from Corsica daily - click here to see if this works!

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