Hilma Nalupe 

Grootfontein was alive with the sound of engines this past weekend as the Namibia Motorsport Federation hosted a rally in memory of the late Jaco van Dyk, a prominent figure in the Motosport industry, who tragically passed away in a car accident near the town in late July. 

Van Dyk, who was based in Grootfontein, was remembered not only as a competitor but also as a member of the close-knit rallying community. Holding the event in his hometown added poignancy to a day that was both about competition and commemoration. 

The rally, sponsored by Shell V-Power and M+Z Motors, drew a strong field of competitors across both the main rally class and the rally challenge, which features 4×4 off-road vehicles. The heat and rough terrain tested the drivers, while fans were treated to tight contests, particularly in the challenge class where seconds separated the top three. 

Championship leader Stefanie Botha led the field off as per rallying rules, but her day ended early after an engine failure forced her out of the race. The competition pressed on through eleven stages, with eight run around Grootfontein, before the rally joined the Oesfees farming festival about 40km outside the town. As part of the Oesfees, spectators witnessed an exciting super special stage, where two cars raced head-to-head on mirrored loops. A thrilling spectacle not usually seen in regular rally stages. Hundreds of festivalgoers cheered on the drivers, giving the event a festive atmosphere before the prize-giving ceremony was held on the farm grounds. 

When the dust settled, Allan Martin and co-driver JP Robinson claimed victory of the rally, proving that they remain among Namibia’s strongest rally contenders. 

Reflecting on the rally, Namibia Motorsport Federation secretary general Derek Jacobs praised both the drivers and the organisers. “There were high-speed sections, but a lot of it was very technical. Some of the areas were a bit rough, but it was a good rally overall and the competition was good. We are thankful that no issues nor accidents were reported,” he said. -hilmanalupe@gmail.com