New course for Australasian Safari
This year's Australasian Safari takes on a new track for 2012
Referred to as Australia's Paris to Dakar and claimed as the toughest endurance motorsport in the Asia Pacific region, the Australasian Safari will tackle a different course for this year's event.
Taking in over 3000km and seven days, the event starts September 21 at Perth then heads north to Geraldton, Murchison, Carnavon, and the start of the Ningaloo Reef before finishing back at Geraldton. The new course incorporates mostly private-owned land and competitors will encounter a variety of terrain including river crossings and sand dunes.
Around 100 competitors are listed to take part, in either the off-road vehicle, motorcycle or quad bike categories. Last year V8 Supercar driver Craig Lowndes and co-pilot John Panozzo ruined their chances of a win when they rolled their Holden Colorado after winning 15 of 17 stages.
In 2011 the Australasian Safari covered 4000km however organisers say this year's event will have to be taken more slowly due to the extra challenging terrain. "The course will be complex for riders and drivers, making the Australasian Safari true to its title of the toughest off-road challenge in Australasia," say organisers.
In April, Australasian Safari management signed a deal with Dakar organisers (ASO) for the winner of the Moto (motorcycle) category to receive free entry to the 2013 event. The Australasian Safari is one of four events selected by the ASO to take part on the Dakar Challenge.
"For several years we have had strong international competitors come to Australia to compete as a serious rehearsal for Dakar and this agreement will hopefully encourage further international interest in our event," Australasian Safari event director Justin Hunt said.
"The agreement gives the Safari international recognition and further credibility as a major player on the world scene."
For event news, course details and to follow the event, visit australasiansafari.com.au.
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