Calling all car enthusiasts and those looking for an adventure – rev your engines and rally for a meaningful cause as entries to participate in the 2024 Italian Job charity driving experience across Italy are now open.
Helping raise vital funds for Buttle UK – a charity dedicated to helping children and young people in the UK who have experienced crisis and those living in financial hardship and dealing with multiple challenging social issues – The Italian Job invites adventure enthusiasts to join a driving extravaganza through Rome and Lazio between Saturday 28th September and Monday 7th October 2024.
Any Mini (old or new) can take part, as well as any classic car featured in the original 1969 film, such as Aston Martins, E-Types, Lamborghini Miuras, Thames Vans/Dormobiles, London Black Cabs, Fiat Dino Coupes and LWB Land Rovers.
The Italian Job 2024 promises an unforgettable experience, blending the excitement of a driving adventure with the region’s rich culture, gastronomy, and wines. The carefully designed Road Book will lead participants through a mesmerising itinerary, ensuring an immersive exploration of Rome and its surroundings.
The adventure commences on Saturday, 28th September, with a fully escorted service van route winding through France, leading to overnight stays in Tours, Grenoble, and La Spezia. The challenge then officially starts on Tuesday, 1st October, where participants will gather at Janiculum Hill for breathtaking views of Rome before proceeding in convoy to the Crowne Plaza Hotel, their home base for the next six days.
Following The Italian Job Road Book, each day will offer drivers and their teams opportunities to explore different areas of Lazio and discover local producers, vineyards, and ancient wine-making techniques, all while raising crucial funds for Buttle UK.
The return journey will include stops in Parma, Monza, and Turin (including a VIP convoy through the streets of Turin, guided by local police), culminating in traditional celebrations with Torinese friends. Participants then make the homeward journey from Monday, October 7th, following the Service Van route or via their own arrangements.
Highlights of the adventure include exploring the Roman castles, venturing into the authentic non-tourist area of Ciociaria, and a day of leisure to explore the wonders of Rome. The journey will also take participants to Rieti, the modern capital of the Sabina region, and the Etruscan area of Tuscia, including visits to Lake Bolsena, Lake Bracciano, Civita, and the artists’ community in Calcata.
The cost to participate is £1360, based on two people sharing a twin or double bedroom. Teams are encouraged to fundraise at least £1,500, with all proceeds going towards Buttle UK Children’s Charity. The inclusive package covers return crossings to and from Calais, accommodations at the 4-star Crowne Plaza Hotel, meals, visits, tastings, excursions, and more.
Freddie St. George, Co-Founder of The Italian Job charity event, commented, “Born in a Brighton pizzeria in 1989, The Italian Job event started as a simple idea among friends: drive a Mini from the UK to a designated Italian city and back, raising funds for children’s charities through sponsorships. Today, the event has evolved into a 12-day social motoring fundraising tour. We’re proud to say we have contributed over three million pounds to children’s charities to date, and this year, we’re raising vital funds for Buttle UK.”
Freddie added, “Our event is not just an unforgettable driving adventure through stunning European scenery; every mile driven, every sight seen, and every donation raised contributes to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Everyone who takes part makes a commitment to fundraising, exploration, and camaraderie – it epitomises social motoring at its finest – and I cannot wait to meet this year’s teams.”
For more information about The Italian Job 2024 or to sign up for this extraordinary adventure, visit www.italianjob.com.