The NWM Ford Rally-Raid Team is back in action, this time tackling the TGRSA Safari 1 000, a gruelling three-day race near Thabazimbi, Limpopo.
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This time, however, it’s not for a repeat of their 2023 season-ending triumph. The stakes are much higher, as the team tackles the TGRSA Safari 1 000, a gruelling three-day marathon race that aspires to join the prestigious World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) in 2025.
This mid-season challenge throws a fresh gauntlet at the competitors. The TGRSA Safari 1 000 replaces the Desert Race on the 2024 South African Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC) calendar. Over three days (June 21-23), drivers will navigate a demanding 915 km course that winds through the Waterberg region’s mix of cultivated farmlands and game farms. With a maximum of 45 points on offer for the win, compared to the usual 30 for shorter events, the Safari 1 000 is a pivotal battleground in the championship fight.
“We have fond memories of this place,” says NWM Ford team principal Neil Woolridge. “Last year’s one-two finish here sealed the championship, and it came after another dominant showing at the Botswana Desert Race. We’re confident our Rangers will be competitive again.” The team hasn’t had the smoothest start to the 2024 season. Minor technical gremlins hampered their progress in the first two events, costing them valuable points. However, there’s an undeniable air of optimism. “Our vehicles are demonstrably fast and capable of winning,” Woolridge acknowledges. “We’re looking to capitalise on every opportunity at this crucial race.”
Related: Toyota Gazoo Racing Braces for Gruelling Safari 1000
Lance Woolridge and Kenny Gilbert (#234) are currently the highest-ranked NWM Ford crew. Their Shell-liveried EcoBoost V6-powered Ranger, which qualified second and finished fourth at the Vryheid 400, sits sixth in the Ultimate class and eighth overall. The standings are incredibly tight, with a strong performance at the Safari 1000 potentially reshuffling the championship picture. Reigning champions Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer (#200) were poised to make a statement at Vryheid after topping qualifying. Unfortunately, brake issues forced them out early, derailing their title defence. They’ll be pushing hard in their NWM Ford Ranger to get back on track.
The NWM-backed privateer team of Wors Prinsloo and Andre Vermeulen (#241) will also be in the mix. Their Ranger has been upgraded to the latest specifications following the Vryheid race, boasting enhanced aerodynamics, cooling, packaging, suspension, and drivetrain for optimal performance and reliability. The racing kicks off on Friday, June 21st, with a short qualifying loop to determine the starting order for the opening race.
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