The Beaujolais Run® is proud to announce that it will commemorate 617 Squadron and it’s ‘Dambuster’ fame, during its 2018 event between 10th-16thNovember. The ‘Run will also form the final official celebration of 100 years of the RAF; and open up celebrations for the centenary of the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund which it will fundraise for.
On May 16th 1943, nineteen Lancaster bombers of 617 squadron left RAF Scampton, now the home of the Red Arrows, for the Möhne, Eder and Sorpe dams. The ‘Dambusters’ route across the channel took them through Holland, en route to their final targets. Once there, they had to fly at 220mph, 60 feet above the water to deliver their ‘Upkeep’ bombs exactly 425 feet from the dam walls. This also, all, had to be achieved under cover of darkness! The rest, as they say, is history- as is the part played in the story by a certain black labrador.
Whilst those on the “Run won’t have to show quite the same accuracy, as Wing Commander Guy Gibson and his men, the opening route of The Beaujolais Run® 2018 will follow in their footsteps, and those of these Leviathans of the air. Beaujolais Run® entrants will be visiting many restricted locations that have granted access especially for the event; both in the UK and Europe. In the style, that is synonymous with the event; it will unravel in a respectful, and fun way, the story of the 133 brave airmen that took part in this amazing feat whilst raising funds for the Royal air Force Benevolent Fund. This year's 'Run will visit poignant RAF and Royal Dutch Airforce locations; as well as taking in the delights of Holland, Belgium and France.
The Beaujolais Run® is famous for it’s eclectic mix of vehicles encompassing modern supercars, classic cars and daily drives. When competing teams reach Champagne, Burgundy and Beaujolais they will be immersed in the wines, and the regions that are annually the heart of the event; thanks to the unique friendships and unprecedented access the event has thanks to it’s stalwart supporters Champagne Taittinger and Louis Latour.
Cars compete to bring back the first of France’s 2018 wine harvests, released at midnight on Thursday 15thNovember, covering the shortest distance across a course of chateaux, vineyards and points of interest as they “Bring back the Beaujolais” to the UK. This Beaujolais Race™ in a shortest distance format allows a level playing field between different types of vehicle. This allows supercars and classic cars to compete amicably.
Those interested in entering the 2018 ‘Run can do so by visiting www.beaujolais www.beaujoliasrun.com and donating £10 to the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund to receive details. The Beaujolais Run® is a not for profit event with all funds raised passed in full to the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.
Quotes:
Rob Bellinger Director of ‘The Beaujolais Run’ said “ We are the original mad Dogs and Englishmen car event; now in our forty eighth year. As such we could not let the 2018 end, without our own unique tribute to the great bravery shown by 617 Squadron and the sacrifices made by those on all sides. It is fantastic to be able to commemorate in such a positive way 100 years of the RAF, by raising money for the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund at the beginning of it’s own centenary year.”
Mark Quinn, Area Director for the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “It’s a real honour to be the chosen charity for The Beaujolais Run, especially as we look towards our centenary year in 2019. Meaningful relationships such as these allow us to continue providing a vital spectrum of support to the RAF Family - be they serving, veteran or dependants - whenever they need it. The event itself is truly incredible and I hope all of our new supporters know that their backing really does make a difference to those who need it, allowing us to stand side by side with them through life’s highs and lows.”