GUST-RAC probably grew out of the dying embers of the original GUST or more correctly out of the dying brain cells of those that survived the amber nectar overindulgences of the Grimbergen fly-in of 2000.

To those of you who are new to these mnemonics or are simply totally confused – Firstly, join the club, and secondly, allow me to explain the meaning of the above alphabet soup.

GUST was the name given to the Grand Unplanned Scandinavian Tour undertaken in 1999 – the heroic exploits of which have been previously documented so we won’t be boring you with the details again.

GUST-RAC is the son of GUST – It is the Grand Unplanned Southern Trek – Round Alps Clockwise – a name which, I am sure you’ll agreed, is truly applicable and runs freely off the tongue!

WHY DO WE DO IT?

Well, it is all a matter of enjoyment really. GUST was so successful that once more we European natives had decided to see if we could still gather enough enthusiasm to venture into the unknown, to test the skill (and patience) of the various ATC authorities of foreign countries, to test our linguistic abilities with the local bar-tenders and sexy blonde maidens and to see if we could get a sun-tan. Advancing old age may have had something to do with it – Our hormones needed some revitalising too but our wives wouldn’t let us take them with us (our hormones that is! Mine were kept strictly under lock and key!!)

In summary and to save you reading any further, we nearly succeeded in all categories.