Round 2 of the Algoa Rally Club Championship delivered a thrilling day of high-speed action on and around Aldo Scribante Raceway at the Syrabix/Scribante Rally, with crews treated to near-perfect conditions after threatening rain clouds failed to arrive. Following some overnight rain, the first stage was held in somewhat slippery conditions but the drying roads allowed competitors to push to the limit, producing spectacular driving and plenty of entertainment for the enthusiastic crowd.

At the front of the field, Nick Davidson and Ashley Bezuidenhout continued their dominant form, producing another commanding performance to secure overall victory. The pair combined outright speed with remarkable consistency, crossing the finish line 58 seconds clear of the determined challenge from Clyde Challenor and Grayham Bishop, who never stopped attacking throughout the event. Ross and Roxanne Bartle completed the overall podium a further 30 seconds behind after another polished drive.

One of the biggest success stories of the day belonged to sixteen-year-old Neels Vosloo Junior, who made an impressive rally driving debut behind the wheel of a Toyota Conquest. Guided by experienced navigator Mark Irvine, the youngster showed maturity beyond his years to finish 13th overall in a competitive field of 21 starters. Their efforts earned them second place in the ARC 3 class and third in the Clubman category, marking an encouraging start to what promises to be an exciting rally career.

Another memorable debut came from Malcolm de Man, who climbed into the navigator’s seat alongside his father, Oliver. The father-and-son pairing enjoyed an impressive outing, finishing fifth overall and securing third place in the RS4 class, adding another feel-good story to an entertaining day of competition.

The crowd favourite, however, was undoubtedly the beautifully prepared classic Toyota Corolla of Justin and Dane Langhein. The experienced duo delighted spectators during the tar stages as the agile Corolla attacked corners so aggressively that it repeatedly lifted onto three wheels, with the inside front wheel hanging dramatically in the air. Their spectacular driving style earned plenty of applause from fans lining the stages while also delivering the Clubman class victory and first place in ARC 2.

There was also a warm welcome back for Gordon Nolan, who returned to competitive rallying after an extended break from the sport. Joined by circuit racing driver Timothy Ball, the pair quickly discovered a good rhythm to claim an excellent third place in the fiercely contested RS2 class, proving they will be a force to be reckoned with.

With the championship beginning to take shape, competitors are already turning their attention to the next round, which takes place on 12 September in the Bathurst area. If Round 2 is anything to go by, rally fans can expect another action-packed showdown as the battle for championship honours intensifies.

Class Results

RS4
1st – Nick Davidson & Ashley Bezuidenhout
2nd – Clyde Challenor & Grayham Bishop
3rd – Oliver & Malcolm de Man

RS2
1st – Ross & Roxanne Bartle
2nd – Juan & Tarryn van Rooyen
3rd – Gordon Nolan & Timothy Ball

Clubman
1st – Justin & Dane Langhein
2nd – Francois Vermaak & Handré van Schalkwyk
3rd – Neels Vosloo Jnr & Mark Irvine

ARC 4
1st – Francois Vermaak & Handré van Schalkwyk
2nd – Ethan Jacobs & Kaylin Kapp
3rd – Juan de Kok & Dirkie Greef

ARC 3
1st – JP Smit & Marisa Bernhardt
2nd – Neels Vosloo Jnr & Mark Irvine
3rd – Martin Kleingeld & Deon Engels

ARC 2
1st – Justin & Dane Langhein
2nd – Johan & Juané Viljoen