The inaugural Atlantis dunes fun day sponsored by RAW 4×4 suspension equipment was held on the 23rd April.
The event was a resounding success with an overflowing Atlantis dunes car park due to the presence of 94 4x4s plus many others not actually taking part.
A 06h30 start ensured sufficient time for around ten groups of vehicles to make their way into the dunes where eight obstacle courses had been set up to test drivers and their machines.
The variety of vehicles was impressive and very varied from a Lexus V8-engined Lada Niva, modified Jeep Cherokees, Discovery V8s and heavily tuned TD5s to more conventional FJ cruisers, double cabs and of course the capable Suzuki Jimnys. Points were allocated according to a mix of sprint times (for the drag race) set times (for the figure of eight) and the ability or not of reaching a set flags half way up a steep dune (the dune bash). Points were subtracted for touching flag course markers.
Paramedics and recovery were on hand but with tyres deflated to around 0,8 bar and with all drivers understanding how to avoid digging oneself into the sand, endless fun was had by all.
Many prizes were awarded from lucky draw to the final winners. These were donated by a number of sub-sponsors with the top prize being a full suspension upgrade by RAW 4×4 to the tune of R38 000. RAW is a spinoff of the Australian company that manufactures truck equipment so it was logical to scale down the heavy duty truck components to suit vehicles that needed some upgrading from stock equipment. Both companies fall under the banner of GUD best known for vehicle filters.
Hopefully this will become an annual event but may have to split into two days if the turnout grows even further.
Words: Peter Palm
