Bigger, Badder

Update on the more Amazing Race:

Another hundred crap cars have been authorized to participate in the 2006 Mongol Rally. In five short years, the Rally has grown from two dudes and a fiat, to an actual race with 200 teams and "cars", sputtering, spewing their way across Europe to Asia, if their lucky--all for charity. Read a hysterical account of the Rally's humble beginnings. It'll inspire you.

The Dawn of the Rally 2001

"In 2001 two gentlemen, Mr Tom and Mr Joolz, found themselves staring in awe at their new vehicle wondering what they should do with it. Before them sat a slightly dishevelled Fiat 126 recently purchased in a rather confusing transaction in north Prague. After not very long they came up with the only sensible plan, to drive to the most ridiculous place they could think of. “After all,” they said, “if you stand far enough away and ignore things like perspective, it looks just like a four wheel drive”.

"Mongolia seemed fit for the job, what with being going on 10 000 miles as the drunk crow flies and with a fine selection of the world's worst roads. So the plan was born, and on a mild April evening with minimal preparations, no changes of clothes, a packet of cheap cigars and hunting knife, they set forth. Although they didn't quite reach Mongolia because of visa and border trouble they enjoyed themselves so much that they swore to return to try again. From this premise evolved the great Mongol Rally, a charity event open to all who fancy the taste of some real adventure. "

Sign up here.