NEW STUFF. More than 80% of the Vryburg 450 race route will take in virgin territory, to test crews and cars to the utmost. Picture: Supplied
For the fifth time in six events, crews will head into the unknown at the Vryburg 450, round six of the Donaldson Cross-Country Championship, in North West on September 12 and 13.
Earlier this season, the RFS 450, the Toyota Dealer 450 and, more recently, the Toyota 1000 Desert Race and Force Fuel 450 saw crews tackling completely new routes.
Now they face another test of character as the cross-country fraternity returns to its roots and spiritual home.
The Vryburg area was home to the infamous Trans-Kalahari events and the Toyota Desert Race from 1981 to 1990 and has produced a string of top cross-country drivers, including the legendary Apie Reyneke and Andre Kok.
Last year’s Vryburg 400 saw national racing return to Vryburg after a lengthy absence, with this year’s race again based at the Vryburg Motor Club.
“An anticlockwise route will take competitors towards Louwna and Excelsior before heading for home,” said route director Adri Roets.
“Only about 20% of last year’s route will be familiar to crews, with the rest being virgin territory.
“After good rains the grass is long and the general conditions along the route are good.”
Roets added that the route was a good combination of open, sandy tracks and a rocky section, which would be tricky.
While the event will provide competitors with a stiff challenge, it should provide for good racing.
Roets added the route would also provide for plenty of spectator opportunities, with cross-country enthusiasts spoilt for choice.
With the season entering a critical stage for championship hopefuls, the Vryburg 450 could be make or break for some teams. This is particularly true for crews who have chalked up one or two nonfinishes.
Competitors drop one score at the end of the season, and in terms of nonfinishes there are a number of top teams in both the Production and Special Vehicle categories skating on thin ice.
Race headquarters, the start/finish and designated service park will all be located at the Vryburg Motor Club on the outskirts of the town.
Public entry to these areas and spectator points along the route will be free of charge.
The qualifying race on September 12 to determine grid positions will start at 11.30am and the race starts at 8.30am the next day.
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