30 June 2000
For immediate release

More than 130 potential crew members for the 2001 Inca Trail Classic Reliability Trial and 4x4 Adventure Drive arrived at the National Motorcycle Museum near Birmingham on Saturday 10 June for a briefing on plans for the event. John Brown, recently returned from his fourteen week, 46,000km route reconnaissance, described his survey work through the six countries that the route visits, showing a selection from over 2,000 pictures taken throughout the journey.

"Things have changed to some extent since I was there in 1969 - thirty-one years ago - for my route survey for the London - Mexico World Cup Rally: but though there is more tarmac these days, South America still boasts some of the best rallying roads in the world."

Speaking about the expected mix of vehicles - currently split about 50/50 between classic cars and 4x4s, the team has established alternative routes best suited to different classes of vehicle, with special off-road options for 4x4s, and certain sections providing less arduous roads for pre 1950 cars. "In particular, the route will present no problem for vintage cars. They were built to run on unmade roads and they'll cope well." So far, the oldest car entered is the 1933 Chrysler Imperial Le Baron Roadster of Ruedi Müller; Ernst Krudop is considering entering his amazing 1917 American La France Simplex, a veteran of HERO's 1998
London - Cape Town rally.

John Brown continues to refine route plans in the light of his survey work. At the request of participants there will be additional time in the rally to offer realistic breaks at key locations. "Crews clearly want to make the most of this opportunity to enjoy the unique heritage of South America, at the same time as competing on the longest rally in South America in 2001," observed Brown.

There is still time for crews to consider entering. Full information is available from HERO on (+44/0) 1886 833505; fax (+44/0) 1886-833144, e-mail [email protected], website www.hero.org.uk