The 2024 TRACN4 National Rally in Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, lived up to its billing as one of South Africa’s most exhilarating motorsport events. With perfect weather, challenging stages, and adrenaline-pumping performances, this two-day spectacle brought the National Rally Championship season to a spectacular close.
Since its debut as the final stage of the National Rally Championship in 2020, the TRACN4 Rally has become a fixture on the motorsport calendar. Renowned for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather, the event unfolded against the picturesque backdrop of Dullstroom in the Emakhazeni region. This year, 22 teams competed fiercely over two grueling days, delivering exceptional performances in both the National and Northern Regions’ Regional Rally Championships.
National Rally
Round 8
- Benjamin Habig and Barry White
- Chris Coertse and Carolyn Swan
- Magriet Potgieter and Tommy du Toit
Northern Regions
Round 4 (Friday):
- Johan Strauss and co-driver Elzaan van der Schyff
- Magriet Potgieter and Tommy du Toit
- Bruce Swatton and Tommie Coetzee
Round 5 (Saturday):
- J.J. Potgieter and navigator Armand du Toit
- Johan Strauss and navigator Elzaan van der Schyff
- George Smalberger and navigator Matt Köhler
Celebrating the 2024 National Rally Champions
The TRACN4 Rally was not just the season’s climax but also the stage for crowning the 2024 National Rally Champions. Competing in Rally Technic’s Mazda 2, Chris Coertse secured the driver’s championship title with a stellar performance throughout the season, earning a total of 303 points. Co-driver Isabel Raaths also claimed the co-driver championship, showcasing her consistency and skill with a total of 216 points.
Rounding out the driver standings, Anton Raaths finished with 216 points in their Toyota RunX, while Benjamin Habig clinched third place. The co-driver standings saw Carolyn Swan claim second place, followed by Rikus Fourie in third.
Victories and Gratitude
Reflecting on his championship triumph, Coertse expressed his pride, “The Rally Technic team poured hundreds of hours into this season, which has been both incredible and challenging. We gave it our all in every race, and it feels amazing to walk away with the title again. This victory wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our sponsors, families, and fans.”
An emotional Isabel Raaths shared her joy, “This season demanded everything I had, and it’s an unbelievable feeling to achieve my ultimate goal of being crowned national co-driver champion. Thank you to everyone who stood by us through this journey!”
