Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, 1 November 2024 – The adrenaline-charged finale of the South African Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC) is rapidly approaching, and the Neil Woolridge Motorsport (NWM) Ford Rally-Raid Team is ready to push their limits. As they head to the Legends Adventure Farm for the Renault KEC 400, taking place on 8 and 9 November, the NWM Ford team is primed to make their mark at the final event of the season.
Despite showing immense pace in their EcoBoost V6-powered Ranger Ultimate (T1+) vehicles, 2024 has been a rollercoaster season for the defending champions. Throughout the year, Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer (#200), along with Lance Woolridge and Kenny Gilbert (#234), have consistently demonstrated speed and skill but have faced a challenging string of results that has held them back from the podium. Currently, Gareth Woolridge and Dreyer stand fourth in the Overall Production Vehicle championship and fifth in the Ultimate class, while Lance Woolridge and Gilbert are closely trailing in fifth overall but hold a fourth-place spot in the Ultimate standings.
“This season hasn’t been without its challenges,” reflects Neil Woolridge, the team’s principal at NWM Ford. “Our Ranger Ultimate has shown it can compete at the highest levels, but luck hasn’t always been on our side. We narrowly missed a win at the Safari 1000 with a close second-place finish, proving our competitiveness but underscoring the fine margins that can define a season.”
In preparation for the Renault KEC 400, the NWM team has dedicated themselves to refining both cars, focusing on performance upgrades and meticulous adjustments to ensure they’re primed to deliver a top result. The Legends Adventure Farm venue, set against the scenic backdrop of Rhino Park just east of Pretoria, offers new terrain that may play to the strengths of the Ranger Ultimate, including tighter, more technical sections ideal for the team’s performance setup.
A Spectator-Friendly Rally Experience
The Renault KEC 400 will showcase the final round’s gripping action in a Super Event format, starting on Friday 8 November. Festivities kick off with a 20km qualifying sprint at 10:15 to determine the starting order, followed by the first of three loops: an 85km race commencing at 13:15. Saturday ramps up the intensity with a 175km loop starting at 08:00, featuring a dynamic mix of fast, flowing tracks and rugged, rocky mountain passes designed to challenge even the most seasoned rally drivers. After the mandatory 30-minute service interval at Legends Adventure Farm, competitors will tackle the final loop, bringing an epic season to a climactic close.
With free access to the Designated Service Park (DSP) and multiple vantage points along the course, spectators have an excellent opportunity to witness the rally action up close. Additionally, the RallySafe app allows fans to track the position of each crew in real-time, heightening the excitement and engagement for rally enthusiasts.
Chasing the Podium
The NWM Ford team’s resolve remains unshaken as they head into the Renault KEC 400. A podium finish in both the Overall Production Vehicle and Ultimate class championships is still within reach, and the team is committed to giving it their all.
“There’s a lot at stake, and we’re ready to put everything into this final race,” Woolridge adds. “Our sights are set on the podium, and we’ll be pushing to maximize every opportunity that comes our way. This venue provides an exciting challenge, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the race unfolds.”
As the SARRC season finale approaches, the Neil Woolridge Motorsport Ford Rally-Raid Team remains steadfast in their pursuit of victory, determined to finish the season on a high. With the stage set for an electrifying showdown, rally fans can expect an unforgettable weekend filled with high-octane drama and relentless competition.
