TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa (TGRSA) is set to tackle the next challenge in the 2024 South African National Rally Championship (SANRC) as they prepare for the Algoa Rally. This event, which serves as Rounds 5 and 6 of the championship, will take place in the area around Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape on 5-6 July 2024.
Last year, TGRSA achieved a double podium at the Algoa Rally, and the team is optimistic about repeating this success. The recent performance at the Secunda Rally, despite Jono van Wyk’s roll in Stage 1, has further boosted the team’s confidence. Both crews, Jono van Wyk and co-driver Nico Swartz, along with Mandla Mdakane and co-driver Kes Naidoo, will be competing in their highly capable Toyota Starlet rally cars.
The Algoa Rally will start with a short gravel stage near the Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay on Friday afternoon at 13:25. Friday’s itinerary features a total of six stages, all on gravel, with three thrilling stages taking place at night, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. The rally will also traverse the fearsome Longmore Forest, known for its challenging terrain.
Saturday will see six more stages, again all run on gravel, starting at 08:05 in the morning. The event is scheduled to conclude around 15:00 back at the Mentors Country Estate, promising an action-packed day for both competitors and spectators.
Reflecting on the upcoming event, TGRSA’s Rally Manager Guy Botterill expressed optimism, “The cars performed exceptionally well in the previous round, and we are confident going into the Algoa Rally. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, the team has shown that it can compete at the highest levels. As such, we’re looking forward to a strong performance in Gqeberha.”
In the championship standings, Mandla Mdakane currently holds fourth place after four rounds, while Jono van Wyk is in tenth. With a history of strong finishes at the Algoa Rally and recent positive performances, TGRSA is eager to continue their pursuit of championship success in the 2024 SANRC season.
