3rd Alpine Trial 2016 - on the trail of legendary Alpine rides

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Created on October 10, 2016

Text:

Sara Räss

Photos:

Gerard Brown

Bentley 3-4.5 (1925) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Alvis Silver Eagle (1929) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Chevrolet Coupé (1938) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Citroën Traction Avant (1937) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Frazer Nash BMW 328 (1937) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Jawa Aero Minor I (1936) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Riley Bigley Special (1937) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Talbot 105 Alpine (1931) - Alpine Trial 2016

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Conquering Alpine passes has a long and glorious tradition, so it's no wonder that rally organizers are keen to revive this history. The "Alpine Trial" follows in the footsteps of the famous Alpine rallies.

From September 26 to 28, 2016, 39 teams ventured on a three-day journey through the Alps, peppered with special stages and adventurous routes. The weather was mixed with rain, fog and sunshine, meaning that Mont Blanc was not always visible.

Talbot 105 Alpine (1931) - Alpine Trial 2016

Day 1 - cloudy start

The trial started in Divonne-les-Bains, a small spa town near Geneva. The Jura, which was then crossed, is not one of the highest mountains in the world, but it does offer a confusing road network. Fortunately, nobody got lost. The day's special stages were held on the Circuit de Bresse and after 308 kilometers the riders were able to enjoy the evening in Divonne.

Chevrolet Coupé (1938) - Alpine Trial 2016

Despite the gray clouds, the participants stayed dry, but when the vehicles were parked in the garage, it started to rain.

Day 2 - spooky atmosphere

On the second day, the fog created a spooky atmosphere. Unfortunately, it was not possible to enjoy the view that we would have had. However, the atmosphere we experienced was incredibly impressive. Old cars appearing and disappearing out of the fog. It brightened up again in the afternoon, creating a real vacation atmosphere.

Citroën Traction Avant (1937) - Alpine Trial 2016

Day 3 - final spurt

On the third and final day, the final spurt was announced and the participants could only lean back again at the finish. Before that, they had to master the last stage, which once again provided some tricky tasks.

The weather was better than on the two previous days - sunshine and views of Mont Blanc could be enjoyed along the entire route.

Bentley 3-4.5 (1925) - Alpine Trial 2016

Title winners

A total of four Alpine Cups were awarded on the final evening. A Jawa Aero Minor I was also named Spirit of the Rally, an MG TC won the Concours d'Elegance and the TT Trophy went to a Citroën Traction Avant.

MG TC (1934) - Alpine Trial 2016

According to the organizers, the next Alpine Trial will take place in two years' time. Further information can be found on the official website of the Endurance Rally Association .