Competitors in the 12th International Tulip Rally - 174 cars - drove into Monte Carlo, Monaco, May 3, after a gruelling drive through Belgium and France from the seaside resort of Noordwijk, Holland, where they started at half past midnight, May 2.

Cars passed the Monaco control point from 1 p.m., on their arduous route taking them onwards over the Alpos Maritimes, in and out of the Vosges, briefly visiting Germany and re-entering Holland near the Belgian border before returning to Noordwijk, May 5.

47 control points on the route entail a tight time schedule. To help classify competitors, there are 15 special sections, with a higher average speed over the more difficult parts of the route, and several speed tests.

A prize-giving supper, and Tulip Rally ball will be held in Noordwijk on May 7.