Frequently Asked Questions
What is a banger rally?
A banger rally is basically a group of people from all walks of life getting together to drive across Europe in some old cars that have been decorated in a variety of crazy designs – having a really good time and raising some money for charities at the same time.
Who are "Road Runner Rallies" ?
Good question!! My name is Ian Barnes together with my son Christopher we have set up "Road Runner Rallies". In 2011 I went on a Banger Rally with 3 good friends, we had a fantastic time, we went to some interesting places and met some great people. However I thought the drive times each day were too long and there was not enough opportunity to get together as a group and share the experience. I thought I could do better and decided that Chris and I would run one ourselves. "The Riviera Run" was the first of what we hope will become a series of madcap touring events - Bring on 2013 where will be visiting Amsterdam, Prague and Oktoberfest!
Is it a race?
Absolutely not. It is illegal to race in Europe and you will not be encouraged to race. Each team will have to sign a disclaimer stating clearly that they will abide by the law in each country we visit. Anyone found racing will be asked to leave the rally.
How can I pay?
Our preferred payment method is via PayPal, but if that is a problem feel free to get in touch and we can arrange an alternative. Register here or contact us on roadrunnerrallies@gmail.com or 07703 686841. Just pay a £50 deposit per person to hold your space.
What documentation do I need to bring with me?
You will need a valid passport. At registration we will be inspecting: the car registration certificate, a valid MOT certificate, European Breakdown Cover, Banger Rally Insurance for the whole trip, Driving Licences for each nominated driver. We will also inspect the vehicle for a valid Tax Disc, headlights adjusted for European driving. That you have at least one fluorescent jacket and a spare bulbs kit. Your car should indicate the country of origin. You will not be allowed to participate in the rally without this documentation.
What about drink driving?
We will be able to breathalyze people each morning. You must have at least one person from each team pass the test before continuing. In some countries they have zero tolerance. We suggest you nominate the driver for the following morning the night before.. It might help!!
When does the rally start?
The start date for Road Runner Rallies is Friday September 20th. This is the date that we will meet up in Calais in the early evening giving everyone a chance to say hello and get ready for the first day of driving!
The rally finishes on the 26th at the Nuburgring. It’s up to you then how you get home. You could stay another day and watcgh the racing at teh "Ring"
Can I fly home? What happens to my car?
Of course, if you would rather fly home thats completely up to you, as long your car is disposed of legally. Some cars get sent to a breakers yard which we can give you details about, some cars get sold or given away!
What do I get for my entry fee?
Road Runner Rallies have organized the event, researched and arranged the campsites researched the route and all the destinations and compiled an information pack for each team. Each car will have Road Runner Stickers and each team member will receive a Road Runner Shirt. There are daily challenges and a prize for The Best Car/Theme. An arrival banquet in Calais, a BYO BBQ and Keg and a Celebration Party on the final night. All this for £125 per person. If you entered the rally last year we will give you a 10% discount each!
How much will the rally cost?
Entrance fee – The cost to enter a Road Runner Rally is £125 per team member a £50 PP DEPOSIT WILL SECURE YOUR PLACE. On top of that you will need to pay for accommodation £25 per person for a canin or chalet; if you camp it’s as little as £10 per person per night. Ferry costs about £70 return, Green Flag £38 European Cover, Banger Rally Car Insurance . Fuel, food and booze will vary depending on your vehicle and how you drive it, if you cook or eat out and your capacity for alcohol!!!!
What if I change my mind?
Please be sure before you register. Once you have registered and paid your deposit here are no refunds. We will accept changes to team members though.
Where will we be staying at night?
Each night’s location has been carefully selected by us. They are top quality campsites with a good range of facilities: Restaurant, Bar, Shop, good toilets and showers. See our routes page for more information
With our accommodation options we aim to give you as much flexibility as possible, some great places to stay and at an affordable price!
Once you have registered we will confirm your entry by email and ask you for your accommodation choices and your choice of optional extras. Oktoberfest we have arranged pre erected tents - 2 people to a tent at £89 pp. Includes Breakfast and tramsport to the Festival.
We will do all the annoying organizing and sort out the hassle; leaving you to enjoy the spectacular sights as we make our way through some of the fabulous places and attractions that Europe has to offer. So all you have to do is let us know whether you would like to sleep in tents or chalets and get you and your team there!
Please do remember that there are limited upgrades on accommodation and you should reserve your teams spot early.
What about food and drink?
We will provide a meal on the arrival evening in Calais, in Germany we will be organising a German style meal and on the final night a meal on the final night. Each night we will be staying on a site with a restaurant or snack bar where you can get food and drink. Breakfast will also normally be available. But if you want to camp and cook then do that, it’s your trip!!! We suggest you buy a supply of booze from the supermarkets as it can be expensive in the bars.
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