h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi Richard

I am very much interested in taking part in the Great Race. Since we spoke at the end of last year I have spoken to a car manufacturer and things are looking positive. As you remember, last time I was planning on mounting my own expedition. Now you have mounted a framework for a number of challengers to attempt the feat, I would like to adapt my plans to fit into this.

First of all, my team and I would love to take part. However, I need to know as soon as possible if this can be done. Our framework for our own expedition was to be several months, and if we are to take part in The Great Race, several members of my team need to let their employers know as to when they will be requesting leave. Two of these members are marines, and so here it is even more imperative that this is arranged as soon as possible.

In discussions with the car manufacturer we have looked at fuel tank size. We were wondering what kind of fuel support will be available: I note that the 1994 trip had a fuel tanker back up. Secondly, will the Ice Challenger be used for the actual straits? Will it be a case of first to the straits gets to use it, and then it can be used again? Or will teams each have their own vehicle? If so this is fine: I believe the special products division of said manufacturer have looked at this area before. However, if this is to be the case then teams will need much time to prepare a suitable vehicle.

What kind of security arrangements were you envisaging? In the current economic and political climate of an emerging capitalist Russia I am concerned about the safety of a high-profile convoy of challengers. What kind of security set-up was used last time?

I was planning on forming a relatively young British team. The two guys in the car with me would be ex-Oxford army lads, I also have plans for an extensive support crew, including two native Russian speakers, and extensive US contacts through my girlfriend. The two other drivers have had extensive mountaineering experience, and are planning an assault on base camp later on in the year. We also have long-distance sailing experience, the London Marathon, and Oxford rowing to our list of achivements. I am excited about the concept of GPS tracking: have you approached anyone regarding this aspect?

If you could please let me know the answers as soon as possible, that would be tremendous. I personally am planning on continuing with studies in international relations and diplomacy, and will need to structure a research program around the challenge.


Yours, Matt Czyzyk
[email protected]