Road takes on Rail at Mercedes-Benz World
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18th March, 2009
England's Mercedes-Benz World is to host the launch of The Flying
Scotsman, a unique and special trial from London to Edinburgh by vintage motor car.
Racing against the clock, and Britain’s most famous steam train - The Flying Scotsman - over 100 pre-war
vintage motor cars will be embarking upon the challenge of a lifetime. Commencing at midday on Friday 27th March,
2009, enthusiasts are invited to see the competitors start their engines at Brooklands, where British motor racing
began, as they begin their journey across the UK bound for Edinburgh.
Based upon the route taken by The Flying Scotsman, the trial challenges "Vintageants" to three days of
heads-down driving, covering the Berkshire Downs, Cotswolds, Warwickshire, Derbyshire, the Peak District and Moors,
Harrogate, Yorkshire and the Dales, Keilder Forest and Scottish Borders finally finishing in Edinburgh on Sunday 29th
March, 2009. Amongst some of the cars already pre-registered to take part in the trial are a 1905 Star Gordon Bennett
and a 1920 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost.
Making its first run in 1928, The Flying Scotsman successfully ran the 392 miles between Edinburgh and
London without stopping, a record at the time for a scheduled service, completing its speedy journey in less than
seven hours and 20 minutes.
Peter O’Halloran, managing director of Mercedes-Benz World, commented: “The concept of this new and exciting
time trial challenge is totally unique. At Mercedes-Benz World we understand the importance of keeping the spirit of
motoring alive, which is why we are proud to be hosting the start of the race. The Flying Scotsman challenge
is an excellent way for vintage enthusiasts to get a slice of the motoring action as road takes on rail in a
nail-biting event.”
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