Tough route for final off road race

It will be only the second visit to the West Rand for crews after last year’s inaugural race. But with half the route for this year’s race completely new, memories of last year’s course will largely be irrelevant.

“We aimed at producing a route that is tight, interesting and technical,” said route director Adri Roets, “and I think we have accomplished that.”

“The new territory we have found is mainly made up of rocky kopjes and water crossings which will add spectator value.”

Roets added the area was a great deal wetter than was the case at the same time last year. This did not imply, however, that dust would not be a problem.

“If there is a dry spell in the area between now and the race dust could be a problem,” said Roets. “Either way it is a route that will produce some close racing, and there will be plenty of action for cross country enthusiasts.”

The qualifying race will be run over a 60 kilometre course that incorporates sections of the race route.

The race will be run over two 170 kilometre loops with race headquarters and the designated service park all located at the Kloof Country Club in Glenharvie with public access to these areas free of charge.

A tight situation at the top of the Special Vehicle category adds to the drama of an exciting finale to the season. Four crews are still in with a chance of winning the overall championship, and five drivers are still in contention for the driver championship.

The Production Vehicle championship has been settled but there is a tight battle for the runner-up spot between Ford Racing and Team Castrol Toyota teams.

The qualifying race will start at noon on November 22 and the race at 8.30am the following day.