Ermelo, South Africa – September 2025 – TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa (TGRSA) showcased resilience and progress over a grueling weekend at the TGRSA Ermelo Rally, comprising Rounds 5 and 6 of the 2025 South African National Rally Championship. The team walked away with invaluable data, encouraging pace, and a third-place finish on Saturday’s final leg.
With regular driver Mandla Mdakane taking a well-earned break, Team Manager Guy Botterill stepped back into the driver’s seat of the Toyota Starlet, paired with veteran co-driver Simon Vacy-Lyle. Their mission was clear: test and refine the car’s development under competitive conditions, laying the groundwork for a strong finish to the championship season.
Friday’s opening leg began on a positive note. Botterill and Vacy-Lyle demonstrated impressive speed, crossing the line in second place overall. A two-minute penalty due to a time card technicality, however, nudged them down to fifth in the official standings—a minor setback in what was otherwise a strong start.
Saturday’s leg saw the team rebound with authority. Implementing a series of setup changes, the Starlet delivered consistent pace, culminating in a third-place overall finish. The crew’s performance underscored both the car’s evolution and the team’s ability to adapt to challenging conditions.
“Day Two was particularly satisfying,” Botterill reflected. “We made a lot of changes to the car and kept getting quicker. We picked up several second-fastest stage times and really improved the Starlet’s setup. It was a tough weekend—very hot, hard on the cars, and a real test for everyone. But the crew did a fantastic job, and we brought it home both days. There’s a lot to be positive about.”
With the Ermelo Rally behind them, TGRSA now turns its attention to the NRC Fouriesburg Rally, scheduled for 26 and 27 September 2025. Armed with fresh insights and renewed confidence, the team is poised to continue its push toward championship success.
