Ermelo transformed into a bustling rally hub as enthusiasts and competitors from across the country took part in the Toyota GR Ermelo Rally from September 27 to 28.
The event kicked off with a ceremonial start at Ermelo Toyota, from where rally drivers and navigators moved on to stage 1 at PC Sand.
Stage 1 provided a prime viewing experience for spectators and photographers, with the entire track layout visible from multiple vantage points.
After completing stage 1, competitors transitioned to the scenic Kralinbergh for stage 2. The rally then rotated back to PC Sand for stage 3, and finally returned to Kralinbergh for a thrilling night stage 4, which took place at 18:24.
Representing Ermelo was the SX Racing team, featuring Johan Strauss and Elzaan van der Schyff in Strauss’s Subaru Impreza, competing in the NRC 2 class.
GALLERY: Relive the excitement of the Toyota GR Ermelo Rally
They were joined by Kenneth Venter and his daughter Kemaine, who raced in their Toyota Tazz in the NR 4 class as well as Marnoe van Niekerk and Francois Keyser driving a Honda Civic in the NR 1 class.
In the regional division, Strauss and Van der Schyff, despite facing some overheating issues with their Subaru Impreza, finished first in their class and secured third overall.
“Due to overheating issues, we had to manage our pace a bit and lost some time. Fortunately, there was quite a gap between us and the team in fourth place, which allowed us to maintain our strategy,” Strauss said.
He described the stages as fantastic but pointed out the challenges created by the drought, which made navigating some corners difficult due to the loose ground.
Despite these hurdles, Strauss expressed that they thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and received positive feedback from others, who viewed the event as a significant success.
“We would like to extend our gratitude to all the farmers who generously allowed us to use their farms for the stages again and for their unwavering support and positive attitude toward accommodating
the rally.”
Make sure to grab your copy of the Highvelder to also read about the other Ermelo representatives had to say about the rally.
