Mini lovers gather at rally in Uruguay

Mini Cooper owners and fans are participating this weekend in a rally in the Uruguayan resort city of Punta del Este, where lovers of the small automobiles can enjoy drives, exhibits and driving competitions, organizers said.

The 9th International Mini Gathering, which ends on Sunday, was organized by the Classic Mini Club Uruguay.

More than 60 Minis, including classic and new models, are taking part in the rally, which drew over 150 owners and fans of the vehicles from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay.

The rally opened with an official reception on Friday, followed by driving tests, drives and a meeting of regional Mini clubs on Saturday.

Organizers plan another sightseeing trip on Sunday, when the event will conclude with the taking of the official photograph and the presentation of commemorative medals at the closing ceremony.

The Classic Mini Club Uruguay was founded in 2001, but a deep recession in the South American country forced members to put off finalizing the organization’s charter and holding international rallies until 2007.