Pothole rally: Flöhaer friends master the Balkan adventure!

Pothole rally: Flöhaer friends master the Balkan adventure!

The anticipation is great in the region around Augustusburg: two friends, Marcel Langer and Roberto Gataz, compete in a very special rally. You have chosen an old taxi that now not only looks nostalgic, but is also robust enough to counter the exciting challenges of the event. The two hobby mechanics have strengthened the vehicle with two millimeters of steel and installed an additional underrun protection in order to be able to optimally arm it against the notorious potholes on the streets. This extraordinary rally will not only be shaped by its exhausting conditions, but also by the community and the adventure spirit of the participants.

The Preparation is not a walk: the registration does not require a special car, but a driving car has to be available until one day before the start. A price of up to 1000 euros is not a hard limit, but rather a recommendation to ensure Fair Play among the participants. If you compete with a fairly cheap car, you could encounter skepticism among the colleagues. To be well equipped for fuel, food, accommodation and toll, you should create a rally cash register. According to calculations, you should expect around 50 euros for fuel, 30 euros for accommodation in the Balkans or up to 60 euros in Germany or Austria and 5 euros of toll fees per day.

on the go on unknown paths

The rally will be a 14-day trip through over 12 countries in Southeast Europe, which comprises more than 4000 kilometers. The participants experience a variety of metropolises, cities, idyllic villages, white beaches and mountains. Well-trained petrol station networks in Eastern and Western Europe facilitate the journey, even if certain speed limits and tolls, such as in Romania, should be observed. In countries such as Bulgaria and Romania, a fire extinguisher must also be carried, which is not only legally but also for strengthening the security consciousness.

The navigation is exciting: GPS and Navi devices are prohibited, and so the rally participants are called to use their topographical knowledge and classic card reflection. This not only promotes the adventure feeling, but also brings a good dose of nostalgia and challenge.

a strong network

The rally also offers a great platform for mutual help. Vehicles that once cause problems can rely on support from other drivers. A return service recommended by an automobile club is ready to help in need. Accommodation options range from hotels to campsites to sleeping in your own vehicle. Wild camps are often tolerated, especially in the Balkans, while this is more of a sensitive topic in Germany and Austria.

Langer and Gataz are convinced that they are well prepared with their skillful handling and preparation for the challenges of the rally. If you also feel the urge for adventure and are interested in the trip, participation in such a rally could also be a valuable experience for you. Whether you want to discover the last tip of the sense of auto or fascinating landscapes and cultures-the Balkan adventure has something to offer for everyone!