Round Headlamp Rally 1000 We had a good run. Thank you everyone for your support .
Kalamazoo, MI
RoundHeadLamp Rally 1000
Remember, Drive More, Wax Less.
What is this?
The total distance will be just a bit over 1000 kilometers. $100 for the car and driver gets you a rally decal, T-Shirt and a finisher token(if you finish) $40 for your navigator. You might win a trophy made of trash. One thing we like to refer to when describing this event is something called "Type 2 Fun." You can read about this idea here https://www.outsideonline.com/health/wellness/why-type-two-fun-feels-so-good/ . To sum it up-" It’s not exactly fun in the moment, but after, you’ll say it was the best time you ever had."
A detailed GPX file with the route will be provided each morning just before leaving for the day. No information about the general route will be provided until the file is emailed to you.
All net proceeds will go to the SW MI SPCA. Also- check us out on Instagram@roundheadlamprally1000
NOTE:
These locations have not been determined as of yet. You will be updated with costs, etc. This year we will ask you make the reservations yourself (you will be provided all the information after we find places that have a sufficient block of rooms available) The aim is to plan the stay at an affordable yet not disgusting establishment. That is the plan. However, this year's event location could make slightly-gross a possibility. We will do our best.
Why Round Headlamps?
If you have a car with round headlamps, it probably means it's old. We like old cars and we like to see them driven. We aren't marque snobs, but we are limiting this event to "vintage" cars. We have used round headlamps as a general qualifier. Of course, there are exceptions. Please don't think your headlamps will be the only determining factor for qualification. If it's from the 20th Century and you are it's primary mechanic, you're in. You need to be able to fix it if it breaks, or you could have one hell of a tow truck bill.
Things to Consider
A big part of the fun of having an old car is working on it yourself. At least, among the people we prefer to hang out with. We throw our own wrenches, get help from our friends and we know our cars well.- Well enough to have a very good shot at fixing an on road failure. Are you? That is the sort of person we are looking for. A "checkbook mechanic" might be useless if along the way if things go sideways. If you have more car wax than tools,this is probably not a good event for you.
Start
For 2023 we will start the rally at 7am In St. Ignace Michigan. This is different from previous years. It will require at least one travel day there and back but we think it will be worth it. We have wanted to do this for years. The Upper Peninsula has some great driving roads.
The Route
It will be U.P.-centric and at least 1000 km. Mostly secondary roads and lots of opportunities to visit interesting locations. In fact, the more you explore, the more points you can earn. The route will vary each year but some of the cooler spots may always be included. You won't know for sure until the morning for each day's route. PLEASE NOTE: There will be some challenging unpaved options this year. You may want to consider leaving the show car at home.
FAQs
Why?
1. Not a lot of rally opportunities in the area. (Michigan)
2. Wanted to put together an affordable challenging experience with like minded people. This will be a test of your machine and your crew. This isn't a cruise- when you finish you should be proud of your efforts.
Are Motorcycles welcome?
Absolutely.
Is this a race?
No. The route we are planning should be achievable within the two day time frame at legal speeds and adequate rest. There will be some sort of lame home built trophy for certain categories or achievements but not for finishing faster than anyone else. You will have the opportunity to compete for points by visiting mandatory and bonus stops along the way. The locations will be interesting, trust us. The big prize will be a finisher medallion- You got you and your machine from start to finish. No finish-No medallion.
Is this event supported?
No. It's up to you and your team to drive the proposed route and ensure your machine makes it. This is not to say there won't be people willing to help. Just make sure you have adequate tools and spares to make the trip. Sometimes its fun to make roadside repairs but a lot of time it's not. Take the time to get your rig straight now. That reminds me....
Is a navigator required?
Yes. For sanity and safety's sake, yes. Bring as many people as you like (that can fit in your ride of choice) but a minimum of two is required. It will very difficult to plot and navigate your through without help. You have at least one friend, right?
You will also need some sort of GPX app such as GPX Viewer to open the files that will be emailed to you each morning. Instruction sheets will also be provided.
$140 for DRIVER AND NAVIGATOR. Please LET US KNOW what sizes for the 2 T-Shirts included with this donation. Additional shirts are $35- Tell us what size for those if applicable
This includes T shirt- Maps - Decal and Finishing Medallion. All net proceeds will be donated to SW MI SPCA
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