My goodness, I do like the sound of this! Finally we get a rally which makes use of both fine cars and the magical vistas that make up the Western Cape. They say it’s a non-competitive rally, but if I manage to secure a berth I can promise you right now I will have a secret race going on in my head!

Just kidding 😉

*cough* kind of..

The ‘Lormarins 1200’ unveiled to the world in London’s Mayfair.

Celebrities from the world of cars and sport gathered in London today at the Home of Alfred Dunhill in Mayfair to witness in excess of £10 million worth of historic cars promoting the “Lormarins 1200” – a non-competitive road rally which is to take place in South Africa’s Western Cape in October this year.

Present were His Excellency Dr. Zola Skweyiya, South African High Commissioner to London and Ferrari Formula One World Champion Jody Scheckter.

F1 world champion Jody Scheckter with His Excellency Dr. Zola Skweyiya
in a 1952 Jaguar C type outside the Alfred Dunhil club in London

The Lormarins 1200 has been born of the passion for both historic motor cars and the Western Cape wine region, long fostered by Mr Johann Rupert. His many business interests have allowed him the basic framework from which to mount the Lormarins 1200, which is unique in terms of the country of South Africa. It will afford enthusiasts of historic motoring the opportunity of taking part in the very first running of a meticulously planned, and sumptuously executed week of top-notch experiences which will remain with them eternally.

The event is designed to showcase the rich variety of South Africa’s world-renowned wine region, the breathtaking beauty of the Western Cape flora and fauna and the warmth and hospitality of its people.

Centred around the Franschhoek Motor Museum the event will be a 5-day “experience” for all those taking part and the organiser’s avowed intention is that “everyone leaves South Africa with an unforgettable experience, lasting memories and newly formed friendships”.

Highlights will include opportunities for whale watching off the spectacular coast; driving through the world famous Franschhoek Pass; a variety of routes taking in Betty’s Bay, Stellenbosch, Paarl, Cape Town, Chapman’s Peak and Du Toitskloof – the very best of the peninsula’s scenery and most challenging of its roads.

The participants will also be treated to an exclusive “race day” at the historic Killarney race circuit with an exclusive hospitality area dedicated to Lormarins 1200 participants and invited VIP Guests. Interspersed with this unparalleled access to the track will be demonstration runs by cars from the Franschhoek Motor Museum including such iconic marques as Tyrell, Maserati and Bugatti .

The Lormarins 1200 rally entrants are restricted to motor vehicles built between 1940 and 1970. The event will be restricted to a maximum of 50 entrants. The Lormarins 1200 will be uniquely South African, with an international flair!

I can see this fast becoming one of the world’s most sought after rallies to take part in and attend.

What a brilliant vibe! Well done, guys!