They’re a committed bunch, Mini owners. Last weekend, more than 10,000 of them, from China, Russia, America and Europe, turned up outside Zandvoort’s famous race circuit near Amsterdam to celebrate Mini United 2007. It’s the second such festival to be organized by Mini’s current custodians BMW, and according to Dr Kay Segler, Mini’s brand president, is set to become a biennial calendar fixture. With a three-day unlimited access pass costing a meager 35 Euros, making money isn’t the objective. It’s more a way for the company to say ‘thank you’ to its loyal (and often obsessed) fans.All three days were jam-packed with enough games and activities to match the vicissitudes of its customers. Fixtures included track driving, trampolining, volleyball, surfing, go-karting and car-towing (yes, some people find towing a car fun). If that all sounds a little too energetic, there was also chance to watch two rounds of the Mini Challenge one-make race series, predict next season’s fashion trends with Mini’s catwalk show or marvel at stunt driver Russ Swift’s incredible car control.As with any great festival, an incredible backdrop of music included acoustic sessions and DJ sets from Sister Bliss and Maxi Jazz, both of dance group Faithless. It was an enjoyable, if blurry three days; the highlights can be seen in our gallery. We’re sure everyone who attended is already looking forward to Mini United 2009.
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