Rendez vous au fond de la mer. That sounds quite posh. And it is quite a mouthful. In 'general civilized Flevoland' the term 'rondje rond de kerk' would cover the load nicely. We are talking about the annual last event of the classic season of the APH (Association Peugeot Hollande). French classics within the setting of the new country. And some participating classics were older than the polder itself.
The season finale had a logical starting point. That was the APH warehouse and ditto clubhouse in Lelystad. The morning started with a cozy get-together and a good cup of coffee with French macarons. How could it be otherwise? That way the participants already got into the French atmosphere, as far as the classics brought along did not give reason for that.
During this regular October Saturday, the knife cut both ways. The warehouse was open, and once again one could stock up on interesting items for the upcoming winter period, during which many owners can prepare their classic Peugeot and freshen it up for the 2025 season. In addition, the people from the warehouse volunteer team were put in the spotlight. They have been working for the classic Peugeot enthusiasts for many Saturdays, and were rewarded for their involvement and for the time they make available for the members.
More happened during the beautiful Saturday in October. Chairman and event coordinator Klaas Kostelijk gave a speech. He brought a special message, because the clubhouse of Association Peugeot Hollande and the warehouse will get a different and bigger destination in Lelystad. For many it was the confirmation that the love for classic cars and the club events are alive and kicking. Moreover, the APH managed to welcome a number of new members. This trend is visible not only within Peugeot circles, but also in other brand clubs. And that is good news for the Dutch classic car world in general. And in this case: for the APH in particular.
The Rendez Vous au fond de mer was traditionally driven on the more beautiful and small roads of the Flevopolder. Sometimes these regions are called bare and straight, but those who visit more often know that it is bursting with nature, which unites itself in a beautiful way with the vastness of the new land. The only thing that initially spoiled the fun a bit was the rain. After lunch - which was also held at the clubhouse - the sun broke through, and the tour in the polder got the atmosphere it deserved. The Peugeots did get an extra muddy and temporary soaking - also thanks to the traces of the harvest period natural lacquer layer.
The nice field of participants consisted of 35 cars. They provided - of course thanks to the owners - a beautiful and varied picture. And within the collection of Peugeot classics there were a number of unique examples. For example, Gus Kieft was there with his unique 203 coupe. Only 953 examples of this beautiful piece of French heritage were built. Traditionally, there were also several 203 saloons in various versions. A nice number of pre-war examples were also present, with the 301D of Henk and Zwanet van der Mik (no stranger in the world) also prominently visible.
Cees Klerk's soft green 402 was also a sight to behold. Incidentally, the owner had brought more classic Peugeot examples for the season finale in Flevoland.
Everyone really enjoyed the event and the opportunity to chat during the season 2024 one more time to soak up and experience pure French classic car love. On to spring!
With many thanks to Arie-Jan and Bianca Vreeken
Beautiful tradition, and so nice that the volunteers were also put in the spotlight. They do great work for the club. And that muddy layer? Pure authenticity!
My 402 and I enjoyed the tour, despite the rain in the morning. Great to see that there is still so much passion for these icons!
Awesome, beautiful cars and a wonderful French atmosphere! Chapeau.