Plains Rally gains momentum
The unique event will also provide an exciting tourism element as riders will be treated to wildlife sightings as they will be riding on paths set by elephants, Zebra, buffalo, giraffe and other animals. Speaking in an interview, this week one of the event organisers from Muddy Face, Lola Berrie said the race offers an opportunity for riders to compete using road books and routes created by locally brewed Dakar Rally competitor, Ross Branch.
“The race is not to be missed as Branch has created a unique, exciting route for all riding skills,” she said. Berrie said even though the race has attracted competitive riders who hold racing license, there will be no points going towards the national championship. She explained that the Adventure Rally is designed for fun and the riders will have a relief of the hard work and politics of competing professionally. “There will definitely be competition during the event as those holding licenses will be in a special stage.” Berrie said the event is important to the development of motorsport in Botswana as riders will have a feel of how to compete in the rally race using complex road books. As you are aware the riders start off with motocross, then move on to offroad cross country before reaching the rally stage. “Our rally gives the rider a taste of what happens after competing in cross country racing as the next stage is rallying. Despite learning about the road book, the riders will experience the liaison stages and a three- day racing event.”
Berrie continued, “We are covering over 800 km and this will be on thick sand. The rally comes to Botswana’s door step and riders will have a taste of navigating a rally event without spending a lot of money.”
Berrie explained that the first day of the race will see riders racing from Maun to Motopi village in a 250 km loop. “The second day will be staged at Leopard Plain, which will be a loop around the private property. The 3rd Day will see riders going from Kumaga to Sitatunga.” Furthermore, Berrie said that they have acquired two electronic road books alongside their partners, Tswana Fuel and riders at the event are allowed to try out the gadgets that can be mounted on their motorbikes to enhance their rally experience. “So far, we have entered 24 riders and our target is 30.
About 15 of the riders registered are from outside the country. This includes South Africa and Zimbabwe. About 90 percent of the race will be held in private land.”