Day 1 - Carrera Espana

 Finally, we’re under way. And a full day it is….two Speed Stages and Three Regularities.

First Speed Stage was on an older, but proper, F1 track in Barcelona. We did not have the fastest time, but very respectable.

Then out of Barcelona and directly into the foothills of the Pyrenees.

The first Regulatory was on a hill climb that was part of the World Hillclimb Championships in the 1950-60’s. Our designated time was 45kph. In the Championship competition the winner went up this hill in over 100kph.

On the Speed Stages we were quick, but not the fastest. On the three Regularity Stages we were slow by 3 seconds (OK, but not great, 6 seconds (poor), and 1 second (good).

At the end of the day we accumulated 29 penalty points, placing us 5th in our class, but within striking distance of the leaders if we can consistent.

Lunch today was at a 1 Star Michelin restaurant and dinner was served in a 8th Century Manor House. Both we’re picturesque.

Beautiful flowers everywhere

Fred Gallagher waves us away at the
start with the Spanish flag

Morning coffee break beside a
beautiful mountain lake

The Starting Gate

There is still snow in the Pyrenees.