Trojan Andy’s remarkable Peking to Paris triumph

Reporter: Ken Bennett
Date published: 02 July 2024


Saddleworth dentist Andy Lane, a seasoned historical rally competitor, has just completed a remarkable international triumph.

The unique Peking to Paris Motor Challenge for vintage and classic cars is one of the longest distance, toughest and oldest motoring challenges in the world.

Andy, as a seasoned UK and Europe competitor, was drafted in by the HERO-ERA Chairman Tomas de Vargas Machuca to co-drive on the eighth running of the event for his friend Martin Belvisi, with Tomas lending Martin his precious 1969 Porsche 911S.

After 37 gruelling days of competition, travelling 14,500km - much on unmade desert tracks and mountain passes - through nine countries, the pair emerged safely in Paris.

And the dynamic duo were fourth overall out of 75 crews, just missing third place by five seconds but securing a gold medal as they were first in the class. 

Said Andy: “It was a terrific endurance test filled with terrific memories.”


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