Remember that crazy fictional cross-country race starring Dom DeLuise and Burt Reynolds called 'The Cannonball Run?' OK, maybe I'm just showing my age. But a group of guys has adopted the no-speed-limit, no-holds-barred race concept and turned it into a reality. This year, they headed to North Africa for an all-out assault on the roads of Mororcco.
Cannonballers took a 'Lap of Morocco' that included stops in the cities of Tangier, Fez, Marrekech and Casablanca.
The 2008 Cannonball Bike Run has returned from Morocco in North Africa and received a huge thumbs up not just from the intrepid riders who completed the 1700-mile route but also from the Local & National Police Force of Morocco.
The organizers spent over a year in planning the Run and dealing with the local authorities. With the Dakar Rally now having moved to South America, Morocco was keen to welcome CBR to their shores and they proved to be the perfect hosts. Special arrangements were made for the riders throughout with fast-track police escorts out of the major cities and police lining the route to clear traffic and wave on the riders - an experience that left many of the competitors amazed.
The 'Lap of Morocco' route took in the beautiful Rif and Atlas mountains; the wilderness of the Moroccan Plains; the scenic Atlantic coast and the arid desert punctuated with lush green oasis. City stop-overs included Tangier, Fez,
The Cannonball Bike Run always has great hostesses and grand parties.
Marrakech and Casablanca as well as a night spent on the amazing sand dunes at the edge of the Sahara. With twisting mountain passes, valley sweepers and flat out straights - this was no ordinary ride and one that will be long remembered.
The CBR's appeal clearly extends way beyond the British with riders from as far away as the USA and Finland taking part. The organizing team made it as easy as possible for the riders with return bike transportation to the start/finish plus all meals, luxury accommodation, great parties, back-up vehicles, medical support and luggage transfer all provided.
The 2009 CBR will return to Morocco with a totally new route. Anyone interested in taking part can register in advance at:
www.CannonballBikeRun.com
