Start mission timer on launch pad without launching?

[Fluxpoint27]

Been messing around with movable launch pads, and is stuck at this hurdle:

How do I start a mission on LP, drive my rig down of the pad, say to the far side of the VAB, without mission timer resetting when I actually launch?

I've tried fitting a single launch stability enhancer, but in vain..

The purpose of it all, of course, is to do a challenge about moving a vertical launcher on wheels a certain distance, and only then launch to achieve orbit/escape in shortest possible time. Or something along those lines. The fun being getting safely down the ramp with a high centre of mass

[Atanar]

Have a probe that you can launch from ontop of the rocket with seperatons and a parachute? It should not stop counting when it lands back on kerbin me thinks.

[Eric S]

Would copying the vehicle to the SPH and launch from there work? The mission timer starts as soon as you have control of the craft if you launch that way.

[Fluxpoint27]

Both useful answers, but neither really fits my idea for a challenge mission. Hmm, I will have to shelve the idea. Thanks!