Twenty-two cars with 81 drivers and passengers took part in the 11th Creditwest Bank Car Treasure Hunt, which raised almost 4,000 TL for the Civil Emergency Service volunteers (CESV 112).
The 90km, three-hour journey, also backed by Cyprus Today, began at Kervan Café in Karaoğlanoğlu and challenged participants to identify 70 clues on a route through Alsancak, Lapta, Karşıyaka, Kozanköy, Gönyeli, Alayköy, Yilmazköy and Camlibel before finishing at Güzelyal’s Blue Garden House restaurant.
The clues involved such things as signs and pictures hanging on doors of restaurants and house numbers.
The winning team of Peter and Barbara Armstrong and Bertie and Bob Turner managed to identify 58 of them with the second-placed team of Pat and Angela Bland and Dave and Irene Cobbold spotting 56, and David and Hazel Smith and Jan and Mike Farmery coming third with 51. All were presented with a trophy and a bottle of champagne.
A Cyprus Today tie-breaker quiz covering three categories, automotive, general and Cyprus-based, saw Dave and Irene Cobbold and Angela and Pat Bland receive the trophy.
Participants enjoyed a meal at the Blue Garden House restaurant, courtesy of Creditwest, which also paid for other expenses such as posters, printing, banners, prizes and a “goodie bag” handed out before the start, which included note pads, pens, baseball caps and a mug.
A raffle and auction organised by CESV 112 members also contributed to funds, along with donations that are still being collected. Prizes and auction items included meal vouchers, bottles of drink, mugs, a food warmer, weighing scales and a coffee flask.
Organisers Mike and Sally Gabb said they were pleased with the outcome of their first treasure hunt in the TRNC after taking over from previous organisers Brian Hardie and Corinna Phillips.
“We did manage to confuse some people but overall we were glad they made it back in the time we set to meet at the finish point,” Mr Gabb told Cyprus Today.
“Everyone commented on how much they enjoyed themselves while going through the scenic route. We were also glad to see members of the CESV 112, who were happy with the amount raised, and we are all looking forward to next year’s event.”
Steve Collard, of the CESV 112, paid tribute to organisers, sponsors, competitors and CESV volunteers.
“All of this money will be going to buy much needed equipment for the emergency services,” he said.
By Yasemin Gulpinar for Cyprus Today
