The Alfa Romeo Owners’ Club of Malaysia recently marked the end of their events calendar for 2008 with their flagship event, the 11th AROC MY Grand Tour 2008, the 620 km long Targa Nord. 

Now in its 11th year, this year’s 'Grand Tour' (GT) covered a route of 620 km in Malaysia’s northern states of Kedah and Perlis. The scenic location of the Bukit Merah Laketown Resort hosted the weekend’s event, which saw about 40 cars – ranging from the latest Alfa Brera and 159 to the older generations of the Alfetta and GTV models – navigate through a variety of roads offering excellent views of mountains, rivers and plantations.

The GT has always proven to be a challenge for all, including the marshals who have to man checkpoints while also monitor participants from a far, making sure no one is left behind or stranded. This year prove interesting again, with the organizing committee deciding to include “errors” in the navigation tulips to test everyone’s navigational, observation and deduction skills. These unique challenges proved interesting for both new and veteran participant.

Supported by Alfatech (Malaysia) and EuroAutomobile (Singapore), the gathering of Alfa Romeos and owners also included members from AROC Singapore. Making their presence felt, the Singapore members took away second to fifth placings, including the 'Best Newcomer' award. First place, as well as the 'Cuore Sportivo' award, went to Malaysia Members.

by Colin Ong