The 2024 TRACN4 National Rally once again affirmed its status as one of South Africa’s most electrifying motorsport events. Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Dullstroom in Mpumalanga’s Emakhazeni region, the rally brought the National Rally Championship season to a thrilling conclusion over two days of intense competition.
From rugged terrain to perfect weather, the stage was impeccably set for 22 teams to showcase their skills across the National and Northern Regions’ Regional Rally Championships. Spectators were treated to a display of precision, determination, and adrenaline-fueled racing that solidified the TRACN4 Rally’s reputation as a cornerstone of South African motorsport.
A Race to Remember
The TRACN4 Rally has been a vital part of the National Rally Championship since its inaugural finale in 2020. Known for its challenging stages and unpredictable conditions, this year’s event lived up to its legacy. The competitors pushed their limits, vying for glory across grueling courses that tested both man and machine.
In the National Rally Championship’s Round 8, the spotlight shone on the triumphant trio:
- 1st Place: Benjamin Habig and Barry White
- 2nd Place: Chris Coertse and Carolyn Swan
- 3rd Place: Magriet Potgieter and Tommy du Toit
For the Northern Regions Rally, it was a weekend of fierce competition across two rounds. Friday’s Round 4 saw the following podium finishes:
- 1st Place: Johan Strauss and Elzaan van der Schyff
- 2nd Place: Magriet Potgieter and Tommy du Toit
- 3rd Place: Bruce Swatton and Tommie Coetzee
Saturday’s Round 5 brought fresh victors:
- 1st Place: J.J. Potgieter and Armand du Toit
- 2nd Place: Johan Strauss and Elzaan van der Schyff
- 3rd Place: George Smalberger and Matt Köhler
Crowning the 2024 Champions
The TRACN4 Rally also served as the perfect stage to crown the 2024 National Rally Champions. Behind the wheel of Rally Technic’s Mazda 2, Chris Coertse clinched the driver’s championship with a phenomenal 303 points, showcasing unwavering consistency and dominance throughout the season. His co-driver, Isabel Raaths, matched his success, taking the co-driver championship title with an impressive 216 points.
The season’s final standings celebrated other remarkable talents:
- Drivers:
- 2nd: Anton Raaths (216 points, Toyota RunX)
- 3rd: Benjamin Habig
- Co-Drivers:
- 2nd: Carolyn Swan
- 3rd: Rikus Fourie
Champions’ Reflections
Reflecting on his achievement, Coertse was filled with pride and gratitude:
“The Rally Technic team poured hundreds of hours into this season, which has been both incredible and challenging. We gave it our all in every race, and it feels amazing to walk away with the title again. This victory wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our sponsors, families, and fans.”
Co-driver Isabel Raaths echoed the sentiment:
“This season demanded everything I had, and it’s an unbelievable feeling to achieve my ultimate goal of being crowned national co-driver champion. Thank you to everyone who stood by us through this journey!”
A Legacy of Excellence
The 2024 TRACN4 National Rally will undoubtedly be remembered for its high-octane action and inspiring performances. It not only marked the culmination of a season but also celebrated the resilience, teamwork, and passion that define South African rally racing.
For detailed race results and more insights into the season, visit the official live timing page.
With the engines now silent in Dullstroom, fans eagerly await the next chapter in South Africa’s National Rally Championship. If this year’s TRACN4 Rally is anything to go by, the future promises even more thrilling moments to come.
