Gear up for the first Rally-Raid event of 2024
Rally-Raid enthusiasts nationwide are eagerly anticipating the kick-off of the 2024 SA Rally-Raid Championship with the #TeamHiluxRally-Raid Nkomazi event in Malalane on April 19 and 20. Get ready for an action-packed start to the season!
Excitement is building as the 2024 SA Rally-Raid Championship gears up for its first event of the season, the #TeamHiluxRally-Raid Nkomazi, set to take place on April 19 and 20 in the picturesque region of Malalane, Mpumalanga. While the championship may have commenced later than usual, anticipation is high for a thrilling season ahead.
This year’s championship promises to showcase the prowess of South African competitors and vehicle manufacturers on the global rally raid stage. With the World Rally-Raid Championship already underway, local fans can look forward to witnessing intense competition from the opening round in April until the conclusion of the seventh round in November.
#TeamHiluxRally-Raid Nkomazi will kick off the season at this inaugural event, featuring several exciting changes to the championship format. Notably, all vehicles and teams will now compete for overall victory in respective classes, including Ultimate T1+, Adventurer T1, Challenger and the SSV Class.
In addition, Castrol joins as the sponsor of the qualifying race, adding a new dynamic to the championship. Teams will partake in the Castrol Qualifying Race at each event, determining the starting order for the main race.
The #TeamHiluxRally-Raid Nkomazi will be a super event, offering spectators and competitors alike an immersive rally experience. The action-packed weekend will feature an 11km Castrol Qualifying Race on Friday, followed by Loop One in the afternoon.
Saturday’s schedule includes two loops of 173km each, with competitors tackling challenging terrains and technical tracks. The route, featuring rocky mountain tracks and sugar cane fields, promises thrilling racing action for participants and spectators.
The event holds special significance as a tribute to the late Johan Horn Sr, whose contribution to cross country and rally raid racing in Mpumalanga remains invaluable.
Organisers are confident the event will be a hit among rally raid teams and enthusiasts. Spectators can witness the action from various vantage points along the route, meet racing heroes in the designated service point and marvel at the impressive racing machines on display.
Source: SA National Cross Country Series
Photo: Plan C Productions
