The director for the 2013 Australasian Safari promises this event will be one to remember for the 100-plus field taking part, but he also offers a word of caution.
“Last year we had the soft dunes, hard dunes, treacherous creek beds, dust, rocky outcrops and the rough scrubby hills the area is known for. Competitors should expect the same this year and more,” said Justin Hunt, Event Director.
As in previous years, the Safari will be based in WA, with the start from Perth. Official competition begins from Friday, September 20, with a ceremonial start for Perth residents the night before.
The route will take competitors through the state's Mid-West and Gascoyne regions over seven days' duration. Competition is open to cars, bikes and quads.
“The Australasian Safari has gained a strong reputation as being the toughest motorsport event in the Asia-Pacific region, and it is an exciting feature of the State’s diverse events calendar,” said Stephanie Buckland, CEO for Tourism WA, one of the principal sponsors of the Safari.
“The event provides valuable exposure of Western Australia and its extraordinary landscapes, as it is broadcast nationally and internationally in more than 130 countries,” she also observed.
This year, competitors go into the draw to win an entry in the 2014 Dakar Rally. The Dakar Challenge is open to bikes and cars (in the AUTO section), provided the winners have not competed in the Dakar in the past.
“What we’ve found here is the real spirit of cross county racing with sportsmanship, a tough route, wild territories and breathtaking scenery,” said Xavier Gavory from Dakar organising body ASO.
“With two rewards on offer, the spirit of competition will be even higher between contenders of the Challenge.”
“Having the Challenge at Safari will bring enthusiasm, passion, and the Dakar fever throughout Australia and the Asia Pacific region.”
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