TZANEEN – The NTT Tzaneen Rally, brought an explosion of fun and thrilling adventure to town from Friday June 27-28.

Although there were only two local drivers who took part in this year’s race, Tzaneen was well represented, with Peter Pilusa in the NR4 category obtaining third place in his group in the first round.

On the last day, round two, he finished in first place, giving him an overall third position in his group.

Pilusa told Herald that he is happy to have represented the town well, and that his 1991 140 Nissan Sentra was able to compete with newer race cars.

“I had a blast, it was a tough competition. Some of the stages were very rocky. I was not sure that I would be able to finish the race as the car had some problems and it was overheating,” he said.

He took home three trophies during the award ceremony. Another local, veteran, Eddie Simpson, who only competed on Saturday, finished the race seventh overall.

“I’m happy I was able to compete in the race, I love speed and adventure. I have a new navigator now and it took a while for us to get the hang of things. Stage two was extremely rocky, but I loved riding the Politsi and dam route,” he said.

Theuns Joubert, who wanted to participate, could not as he had car issues.

One of the stages which was a hit with fans, outside the Letaba Showground, saw spectators came in great numbers to witness the rally.

Pilusa told Herald that his next race will be in Bronkhorstspruit on July 18-19, where he hopes to continue his form.

He concluded by thanking all his sponsors that included Salome for assisting with his entry fee, Gravelotte Coal for the fuel and Midas for the lubricants.