In a remarkable display of sportsmanship and skill, a British team participated in the FIA e-Rallye Monte-Carlo, reviving traditional ties between the UK and France as they navigated the elegant curves of the Alpine A290 GTS through some of the most iconic rally stages in history.
Richard Crozier and his co-driver Craig Parry teamed up for the first time, diving into this historic eco rally—now celebrating its 30th edition. They returned with plenty of stories and a hunger for future challenges, having made their mark among a diverse field of 62 entries from 18 nations and 17 different car manufacturers, covering an impressive distance of 1,078 kilometers.
Crozier, a seasoned rally driver with 18 years of experience and currently a clerk of the course for the UK component of the series set in Dundee, teamed up with Parry, who balances his role as an engineering geologist at Atkins Réalis with a passion for motorsport. Their connection to the Alpine Formula 1 team allowed them access to a factory-supported A290, a fitting tribute in Alpine’s 70th anniversary year.
A Unique Experience in Eco Rallying
The e-Monte provided an opportunity for Crozier to gather insights to apply at his Dundee event, while both drivers faced an elevated level of competition that emphasized strategy over sheer speed. Rallying, particularly in eco events, requires a nuanced precision and an understanding of the unique rhythm of the course.
Navigating Complex Challenges
For Parry, the challenge took on a new dimension at e-Monte. “This was my first experience with night stages on renowned routes like the Col de Turini, which added layers of complexity to our strategy,” he reflected. The higher average speeds required a significant shift in their approach, demanding quick recalibrations in real time as they navigated tight hairpin turns.
“In the UK, the corrections needed to maintain an average speed are minimal if your initial measurements are accurate. Here, we faced moments where we lifted rear wheels and adjusted our cornering strategy. As the navigator, my task was to calculate on-the-fly how much distance we cut from our driving line during those tight corners,” Parry elaborated.
The Competitive Spirit
The e-Rallye Monte-Carlo symbolizes much more than just a race; it represents a burgeoning sector of motorsport that prioritizes sustainability while capturing the thrill of competition. Furthermore, the experience has enriched Crozier’s perspective, making him even more eager to apply what he’s learned to future events.
As they concluded their adventure, Crozier and Parry not only embraced the challenges posed by this prestigious rally, but they also solidified a partnership that has the potential to evolve in the years to come, equipped with lessons that can only be learned through such hands-on experiences.
The participation of Richard Crozier and Craig Parry in the FIA e-Rallye Monte-Carlo represents a blend of tradition and innovation in motorsport. Their journey underscores the evolution of eco-friendliness in rallying and showcases the power of collaboration. As motorsports continue to pivot towards sustainability and efficiency, the experiences gained from such events are invaluable for both drivers and the future of this vibrant industry.
