Dear Old Car Friends,

30 September feels like a century ago, yet the memories of that splendid day are still very vivid. And what’s more, the old media have shown their enthusiasm and have printed their views with real ink on real paper! Most recently The Automobile with a fine write up by Zack Stiling. And of course La Vie de l’Auto with a very nice report by avid fan of The Automobile Luc Scorneaux. Both reports enclosed. Still very sorry that a few participants couldn’t make to the start at the Kemmelberg. They were badly missed and we truly hope, no we count on it to see them a next time!

Secondary but not to be overseen. With The Oily Rag event we show the importance and the joy of durability and sustainability. These cars are not built and demolished within the average write-off period of eight years. These sturdy machines were built and maintained to last. The only thing the outside worlds can grumble about is the nowadays less accepted exhaust fumes. To overcome this tiny detail we compensate every event organised with a donation to the Black Jaguar Foundation. They do not restore black Jaguars. They restore important sections of the Amazon rainforest in a very intelligent way. Not only by replanting trees but also by bring back the original fauna, ranging from colibri to indeed the black jaguar. For every participating car a single tree was planted.

And you may find it nonsense to fuss about that small amount of petrol with our little used old cars. But believe me, there is no future for our hobby if we try to deny. Take an example from the Goodwood Vintage Revival that as from 2024 will do all racing with E-fuel, absolutely fossil free petrol.

For sure you will hear when & where there is a next Oily Rag. The Automobile has no concrete plans when I asked them about the near future. But we all know that original and unrestored will soon sound at least as tasty like Mint & Boxed in the model world.

Special thanks to all who helped in the background. And even more special thanks to Marc ‘Salmson’ San Giorgi who supported the organisers whenever needed.

Thanks for your enthusiasm! Cheers to our rusty friendship!

 Happy motoring in 2024!