Dream Dakar debut for Ballito’s Guy Botterill
Considering Botterill was a replacement driver for the injured Henk Lategan, he more than proved himself worthy of a seat at the biggest table in world rally driving.
Ballito rally driver Guy Botterill fought his way to an incredible 6th place overall in his first Dakar Rally.
After almost 51 hours of driving in the punishing Saudi Arabian desert, Botterill finished as both the top placed rookie and top South African, ahead of the legendary Giniel de Villiers who finished in 7th place.
It capped a steadily consistent 15 days and 12 stages of racing from the first time Dakar driver, aided by his experienced co-driver Brett Cummings.
Together they plugged away at the leader board, building their way up from 17th after stage three to 6th after the penultimate stage 11.They entered the final day at 2:40:31 behind leader and eventual winner Carlos Sainz Sr, looking to solidify their position and avoid any major setbacks.
“It was unbelievable. We got a puncture quite early on in today’s stage, so we had to take it easy,” said Botterill after completing his first Dakar on Friday.
Photos: Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa.
“Brett was unbelievable throughout the race. I can’t believe we got to the end, and to be in the top 10 and to be sixth is incredible.”
All told, the puncture had little effect on the overall standings as Botterill and Cummings lost just two seconds to Sainz, finishing all 12 stages in a time of 50:55.51.
They travelled almost 8 000 kilometres over the two exhausting weeks, of which 4 727 kilometres counted towards overall timing.
Botterill and Cummings competed in the ‘cars’ category, typically thought of as the most prestigious, but motorbikes, quads, lightweight vehicles and trucks are also included in their own divisions.
Photo: Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa.
They were the best finishing duo from Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa’s five drivers, ahead of De Villiers (7th), Lucas Moraes (9th), fellow rookie Saood Variawa (17th) and Seth Quintero (100th).
Considering Botterill was a replacement driver for the injured Henk Lategan, he more than proved himself worthy of a seat at the biggest table in world rally driving.
He will no doubt be pushing for another shot at a podium position in next year’s race.
You can find the full list of results at dakar.com or via the Dakar Rally cellphone app.
Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.
Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.
