The Cyclecar movement grows and grows and after the UK enthusiasts had such fun with their 'Festival of Slowth', it was only natural that the French Cyclecaristes should celebrate Slowth on their side of the channel.The event was held at the Chateau de Lantilly with history going back to the 14th Century and after the variety of vehicles assembled in the grounds on saturday morning, entrants were given a guided tour of the ancient fortress followed by a fabulous lunch.
Cars were then invited to enjoy some mild competition by following a course as slowly as possible to the cheers of onlookers at the finish line.
Some drivers were having too much fun to go slowly, and others used all the road (and verges) to lengthen their route and time. The Velocar, entered by The Automobile Magazine, had no trouble going slowly and crossed the line at a veritable snail's pace to much applause - almost as much as that given to Kate in her Busy Bee who cleverly used air brakes!
Having gained confidence in their wonderfully original Velocar on its first outing, the entire editorial department of The Automobile Magazine climbed aboard for the afternoon's final section - a gentle drive along the canal towpath. Lack of visible 2-stroke oil smoke suggests more pedal power than motor.
You know us well enough to understand how keen we are to support events like this and after dinner on saturday evening, it was decided that the Velocar was the winner and the Velocar Team were asked to receive 'The Best of Slow' trophy in the shape of a snail containing a desk lamp.
Sunday morning was warm and sunny and just right for a trip across the lake, but rather than boats, they laid on amphibious landing craft - enormous fun! Then after a successful visit to a local Brocante, everybody enjoyed lunch and a chance to have a closer look at all the extraordinary cars gathered together for this marvellous event. See you next year?
Text/pictures Robin Batchelor.