|
The Spirit of Africa competition is the ultimate test of 4x4 skills for off-road enthusiasts. This annual competition was devised for drivers who want to test their own skills against other 4×4 fans in the toughest African conditions. For the 2014 season, the competition moved from Kondowe in Limpopo Province, where it enjoyed two very successful years, to the platinum province of the North West. Previous venues which have hosted the Spirit of Africa finals include the Kalahari Desert, near Upington in the Northern Cape, and Kosi Bay in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in KwaZulu-Natal. The elimination rounds of the 2014 edition of the Spirit of Africa competition kicked off in April near Zeerust in the North West Province. Different groups of 4x4 drivers competed against each other through a series of 4x4 driving courses instructed by racing legend, Sarel van der Merwe. The Ultimate 4x4 Test Drive The Spirit of Africa competition gives off-road enthusiasts an opportunity to test drive the ultimate off-road 4x4. Intense action, adrenaline and excitement were the order of the day during the preliminary rounds of the competition. Contestants battled it out through various speed and technical trials for a place in the finals of the Spirit of Africa Trophy 2014. Sarel’s courses were tough and tricky, but the off-roaders tackled them with ease, all thanks to innovative and efficient modern 4x4 bakkies. The technical challenges have been considered to be the most interesting of the competition as they tested the 4x4 skills of the contestants to the utmost. As the 4x4 bakkies were able to handle the terrain with ease, it came down to the drivers’ endurance, quick thinking and composure to separate the winners from the losers. Apart from bringing toughness, elegance and aerodynamics, these modern 4x4 bakkies also brought power and comfort to the off-road competition. With electronic stabilisation programme, hill control and shiftable four-wheel drive system, these 4x4s could handle any challenge thrown their way. A combination of mountains, valleys and forests set the scene at the beautiful Doringkloof Reserve in Zeerust, where the preliminary eliminations of the Spirit of Africa were held. After putting their 4x4s through their paces, contestants had time to enjoy traditional South African food around the campfire as they shared their off-roading experiences. Contestants, who have never driven a top of the range, contemporary 4x4s before, indicated that they relished the amazing experience that these vehicles had provided. Throughout the preliminary eliminations, these 4x4s performed exceptionally well and were hailed by contestants as incredible off-roading vehicles. The top 20 finalists will battle it out in Botswana for the grand prize and the title of the spirit of Africa champion. The tough roads in Botswana are set to challenge the teams’ off-road competences to the ultimate degree. Although you have missed the chance to compete in this year's edition of the Spirit of Africa competition, you can still experience a test drive in the innovative 4x4 bakkie at your nearest dealership. About The Author Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are renowned for their strength and reliability in the South African market. Amarok 4x4 bakkies are the traveller’s choice for off-road adventures that are comfortable, reliable, and fuel efficient.
Related Articles -
highlights, amarok, 4x4, bakkie, spirit, of, africa, 2014,
| 
