Ever since the first automobiles took to the road at the beginning of the last century, drivers around the world have been enthralled by these wonderful pieces of technology. Knowing that you are in control of something so powerful yet so fun is a feeling hard to beat. Part and parcel of that feeling is the adrenalin rush you get at high speed and auto racing, and this is none more apparent than in the legendary Cannonball Run.



Originally stemming from the nickname given to one of the greatest adventurers of all time, Erwin G. Baker, the Cannonball Run is a cross-country road race over several thousand miles that involves all manners of both semi-professional and amateur racers. There have been many different versions throughout the world over the years, the most famous probably being the one immortalized in the Burt Reynolds movie of the same name. Now the Cannonball Run can also be found in Europe.

Now in its sixth year, Cannonball Run Europe 2007 takes its inspiration from its American ancestor and introduces it to a whole new audience. Taking place between July 1st - 7th, for the relatively small fee of 4500 British pounds, drivers can experience the sheer unbridled sense of adventure this special race offers. Taking in six countries across Europe, including the UK, France and Italy, this year's race competitors will find themselves having to travel over 3000 miles of various roads and surfaces to be crowned the champion. This is one of the things that make this race so endearing among its fans it truly is a test of man and machine.

Although not cheap, there are a lot of features included in the price of the race entry fee. All ferry crossings from the UK are included, as is your accommodation in each country. Food and drink is also part of the price, with a welcoming arrival drink at each hotel you stay in. Throw in a track day where you can tear around a dedicated racing track, and the cost of participation suddenly seems less inhibitive. The only omissions from the price is your petrol and other personal expenses, such as tolls and any traffic fines you may pick up along the way.

The true appreciation of the race comes in the cars themselves. Since this is still an amateur race, the cars taking part are your everyday vehicles, as opposed to professional race teams. That's not to say that the Cannonball Run doesn't have glamour, though. You'll still find impressive racing machines from the likes of Subaru, Porsche, Ferrari and BMW, as well as your normal day-to-day cars. You'll even find a Skoda competing, something that would be extremely unlikely in other auto racing fields!

With stunning countryside, friendly car-loving enthusiasts and a genuine sense of camaraderie, expectations are high for this year's event to be even better than previous years, and continue to build upon the legend that is becoming the Cannonball Run Europe.