Koës Pan Rally excites

SA drivers turn up the heat
In his fourth participation, Emic Duvenhage from South Africa achieved his first win here.
  • 1 Year Ago 10 July 2023
Considered to be one of the oldest off-road races in the country, the Koës Pan Rally has been around for 38 years as it started in 1985.

With the main event taking place on Friday, drivers and riders from neighbouring countries like South Africa and Angola made it all the way to Koës, a village about 130 km east of Keetmanshoop, where this prestigious event is held annually.

Rickus Vermeulen, the organiser said: “The ambulance was on hand, but it stayed in its place. The safety of everyone is always our main concern, so were really happy. The turnout was good and the guys came out to enjoy themselves.”

In the 250 cc category, Emic Duvenhage (South Africa) took first place in a time of 01:53:35, Wika Jordaan (South Africa) took second in a time of 02:01:50 and Rico Vermeulen took third.

Afterwards, Duvenhage said: “This is my fourth time taking part in the Koës Pan Rally and I’m happy with the result. It’s my first win here, so I’m grateful for that.”

In the sand master category, Bokkie Duvenhage comfortably secured first place in a time of 02:07:53, ahead of Jacobus Blaauw in second place.

It was a tight race in the open class as Henner Rusch secured first place in a time of 01:34:00, with Frans Burger finishing 55 seconds later and Jako Maree taking third place.

Dirk Trümer, who was been taking part in the Koës Pan Rally for more than 20 years, said: “It’s a beautiful event to be part of. We get to socialize with friends we haven’t seen in a while and there is always good competition. I just love it!”