With a mix of nerves and excitement, we departed for Sun City to be part of the 2025 Safari Rally – and what an experience it turned out to be.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was electric. Friendly faces and eager anticipation filled the air, and we couldn’t wait to get into the pits to see the world-class vehicles we’d heard so much about. The moment we laid eyes on them, we realised how incredibly privileged we were.

Friday and Saturday were surreal. We saw the machines and the legends behind them – world champions up close. We stood next to none other than Nasser Al-Attiyah, amazed not just by his reputation but by how approachable and genuinely friendly he was, chatting to us as if we were old friends. Then there were the other giants of the sport: Sébastien Loeb, Carlos Sainz, Nani Roma, Ross Branch, Adrian van Beveren, Daniel Sanders – witnessing the two-wheel warriors in action was a highlight all on its own.

On Monday, the prologue kicked off, and we made our way to Lichtenburg. Tuesday came early – time to head to our marshal point and set up. We were nervous; this was a world championship event, after all. When the first motorcycles roared past, it felt like time stood still – and then they were gone just as quickly. Then came the cars, thundering towards us, and we tried to take in every sound, every flash of movement. What a privilege to be part of something so extraordinary.

The day flew by, and it was back to Lichtenburg for a late-night marshal briefing. Wednesday was another early start – setting up again, coffee and rusks in hand while we waited for the action. Every day brought more memories, more unforgettable moments. From there, we moved on to Stella, where Park Fermé offered a fascinating insight: only bike riders were allowed to work on their machines for 30 minutes. Watching legendary drivers in the Ultimate class change tyres and tinker with parts themselves was mesmerizing.

That night, as freezing temperatures set in, everyone – including the legends – retired to tents and sleeping bags. A hearty meal in the bivouac helped warm us up, but the cold spared no one.

Thursday brought more early starts and excitement. That evening, thanks to Theuns and his team, most of us got to sleep in warm chalets and enjoy hot showers and proper meals – a much-needed break that boosted everyone’s spirits.

Then came the final stretch. On Friday, we returned to Sun City and set up camp again for one last day of marshalling. Saturday arrived too soon. It was the grand finale – the last time we’d see these masters of motorsport in action.

And what a finish it was! With only 39 seconds separating South Africa’s own Henk Lategan and Sébastien Loeb, the excitement was palpable. Both posted the exact same time on the final stage, but it was Henk – alongside navigator Brett Cummings in a Gazoo Racing Toyota – who claimed the well-deserved victory.

By Sunday, the campsite stood quiet and empty. Months of preparation, anticipation, and sleepless nights had come to an end. Our bodies were sore, our minds exhausted – but our spirits were full. We’ll be ready for the next one.

A massive thank you to the organisers for pulling off such a world-class event, and to every single marshal – from top management to the flag marshals on the front lines – you were phenomenal. It was an honour to stand among you.

Until 2027.