Third Raid Roma–Cartagine Tunis 2000 Vintage Cars Celebrates Success
The third edition of the Raid Roma – Cartagine Tunisi 2000 for vintage cars started this Saturday, September 30th, from the Port of Genoa, and will conclude on Saturday, October 7th.
Following the remarkable success achieved in the first two editions both in Tunisian territory, where the event takes place, and in Italy, particularly among enthusiasts of the sector, the third edition was a natural development.
The support of Tunisian authorities
Much credit for this success goes to the Tunisian authorities, particularly to the Ente Nazionale per il Turismo (National Tourism Authority), which, in the interest of Tunisia’s growing tourism economy, have consistently shown their maximum willingness to support this event by providing law enforcement forces both for protection and for escorting the cars: it should be remembered that in the first year, a train was even stopped to avoid disrupting the convoy.
The hospitality and warmth of the Tunisian people, combined with a particular affection for Italy, have supported the authorities in their task.
Organization features
Another key strength of this Raid is the ethos instilled by the organizer Dott. Mohamed Lakhal, owner of the Tour Operator Elem Viaggi, which emphasizes the spirit of camaraderie and friendship that has always united the participants, brought together by their shared passion for vintage cars.
This year’s Raid, after the first two were concentrated in the central region of Tunisia, will take place in the northeastern tip, the greenest part of the country, precisely along the northern coast and its inland areas.
Itinerary and departure details
The meeting point is scheduled for Saturday, September 30th at 1:30 p.m. at the Port of Genoa, where participants will board the ferry “Le Carthage,” a splendid cruise ship equipped with every comfort, launched in record time by the Tunisian government specifically for this Raid.
Arrival in Tunis is expected by noon the following day, with a surprise reception.
After a short journey, the convoy will reach the headquarters of this event: the “Palace Gammarth” hotel.
First stop and archaeological visits
On Monday morning, the line of cars will start moving towards their first destination: Bizerte, a city that, over the centuries, has seen numerous dominations and civilizations pass through—Punic, Roman, Vandal, Byzantine, Arab, Ottoman, and finally French, which still preserves tangible memories and treasures, coherently connected through recent urban development works that have allowed, among other things, coexistence between areas like the old Medina or the fishing port and new constructions.
From Bizerte, the convoy will head to Utica, where some of the best-preserved Punic ruins in the Mediterranean can be admired.
The landscape and activities on Tuesday
Tuesday will be a day spent in a nearly continental green landscape, among lakes, rivers, and trees—an unusual scenery for those who associate North Africa with the Sahara Desert.
Visits and activities on Wednesday
Wednesday’s schedule includes short trips to Carthage, passing through its ruins, and Sidi Bou Said, the quintessential Tunisian village with its white houses and blue windows, culminating in the traditional parade along Avenue Bourguiba.
Regularity races and event closing
Thursday will be dedicated to regularity competitions held on the “Les Berges du Lac” urban circuit at the Tunis esplanade. In the evening, a grand closing gala will take place, with awards for the afternoon races.
On Friday, at noon, the convoy will return to the Tunis port for boarding and departure, scheduled for the following day at 12:00 p.m. Italian time.