The intrepid Mongol Rally team Pulled Up In A Lemon have finished their incredible journey; covering 19,865km, spending 60 days on the road and consuming 187 cans of cola.
Driving their Toyota Yaris from Prague to Ulan Ude, in Russia, the four Kiwi women — Lucy Pringle (23), who grew up in Milton, Lucy Kitchin (24), of Oamaru, Dunedin’s Maddie Parker (25) and Claudia Clarkson (24), of Hastings, described their mode of transport as ‘‘a mighty golden 998cc wagon that was the gift that kept giving’’.
‘‘Everyone who said ‘get a Toyota’ was absolutely on the money, as she proved to be one of the most reliable wagons on the rally, with not one single engine issue! We didn’t know one thing about cars, other than how to check the oil and change a tyre, and thanks to Liz, we didn’t need to!’’ Pringle said.
The team had an epic adventure, she added.
‘‘We have experienced some bizarre and inspiring countries and cultures, met some incredible people, and seen some jaw-dropping scenery that gives New Zealand a run for its money.’’
Rolling into the finish line in a four-car convoy, they were greeted by seven other Kiwi teams among the other finishers.
‘‘What a feeling! A trip and an achievement we had been talking about and anticipating for months and months had finally been completed, and alongside all our friends we had made along the way. Although a little broken here and there, we all had made it. Champagne was sprayed, the music was loud, fire spinners and Russian dancers entertained us, and there was plenty of vodka,’’ Pringle said.
Pulled Up In A Lemon raised $7180 for their chosen charity, Women’s Refuge.
- by Catherine Pattison
Photo: Supplied
