Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA) is gearing up for the next challenge in the 2024 South African National Rally Championship (SANRC) as they prepare for the Algoa Rally. This event, marking Rounds 5 and 6 of the championship, will unfold around Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape on 5-6 July 2024.
Last year, TGRSA secured a double podium finish at the Algoa Rally, and the team is hopeful of replicating that success. The recent performance at the Secunda Rally, where Jono van Wyk managed to bounce back after a roll in Stage 1, has further bolstered the team’s confidence. Both rally crews—Jono van Wyk and co-driver Nico Swartz, along with Mandla Mdakane and co-driver Kes Naidoo—will be competing in their adept Toyota Starlet rally cars.
The Algoa Rally kicks off with a brief gravel stage near the Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay on Friday afternoon at 13:25. Friday’s schedule includes six gravel stages, with three electrifying night stages adding an extra layer of excitement. The rally will also navigate the formidable Longmore Forest, renowned for its challenging terrain.
Saturday features another six stages, all on gravel, commencing at 08:05 in the morning. The event is set to wrap up around 15:00 at the Mentors Country Estate, promising a day packed with action for both competitors and spectators.
Looking ahead to the event, TGRSA’s Rally Manager Guy Botterill shared his optimism, “The cars performed exceptionally well in the previous round, and we are confident heading into the Algoa Rally. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, the team has proven its ability to compete at the highest levels. 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 strong history at the Algoa Rally and recent positive performances, TGRSA is eager to continue their pursuit of championship success in the 2024 SANRC season.
