French hillclimbs are like any other in that the object is to get to the top in as short a time as possible, however the running of the event is quite different to what most overseas drivers are used to.

Here is a run-down of what to expect . . .

When it is your turn there will be an announcement in English "Masters to the grid". Exit the paddock as a group by gate 5 or 4. On arrival at the pre-grille you will be greeted by a marshal who will give you the number of your grid space, park up in the relevant box, the numbers are painted on the road. Expect to wait around for quite a while, you will then be told to start your engines and follow the clerk of the course down to the start line.

Once in the start line (Depart) keep well to the right to maintain access for emergency vehicles.

When directed to the start line you will be lined up by a marshal in the one meter box, it is not a precision affair. If you study the quick locals you will notice that they always hang as far back as possible to get the benefit of slight launch through the beam.

The light sequence is red, orange, green. Once the green is lit you have 10 seconds to start your run, if you don't you loose your time. If you stall the clock keeps ticking even if your rear wheels have not crossed the start line.