The Castrol Ford NWM Team launched their 2025 South African Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC) campaign on a positive note, securing victory at the challenging Bronkhorstspruit season opener. Backed by title sponsor Castrol, the team effectively demonstrated the capabilities and resilience of their NWM Evo Plus bakkies amidst tough competition.
Facing fast and dusty conditions, the team's three-car entry delivered consistent pace and reliability, supported by well-drilled pit crew operations. This year's route echoed the 2024 season finale but introduced new complexities, including large rocks concealed in long grass demanding constant driver and team focus.
Starting or running a small business and in need of a bakkie – click here
After two demanding days of racing, the 2023 SARRC champions, Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer, entered the final stage holding a narrow advantage over Saood Variawa and Francois Cazalet in a Toyota. The Ford pair maintained their composure, ultimately winning the event by a margin approaching three minutes. This result hands them an early lead in the championship standings as the series heads to Parys on 15-16 August.
"Crossing the line first at the year's first event is really satisfying," stated Gareth Woolridge. "It's lekker to gain an early advantage. We weren't always in the lead, but I knew the bakkie had good pace. If we kept pushing the way we were, the speed was there. We gave it proper beans from the start, and the car was solid as a rock! This is a great boost for the whole team, and hopefully, it sets a positive tone for the season."
In another NWM Evo Plus, Lance Woolridge made an unplanned return to SARRC competition, stepping in for the injured Wors Prinsloo. Partnered with co-driver Andre Vermeulen, the duo quickly found their rhythm, delivering a competitive drive that kept them near the front runners, culminating in a fifth-place finish overall.
Need finance – click here for the very best finance deals for your new car
Bringing their international experience to the local terrain, Brazilian and South American rally-raid champions Marcos Baumgart and Kleber Cincea delivered a steady performance in their Ford, finishing seventh overall. The pair, holders of multiple Brazilian Cross Country titles and the 2019 South American championship, continue adapting effectively to the unique demands of Southern African routes.
The team's performance underscores the strength of the NWM Evo Plus, meticulously designed and built by Neil Woolridge Motorsport in Pietermaritzburg. The bakkie, powered by Ford’s proven EcoBoost 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, benefits from extensive development through local and international rally-raid competition.
"What a way to begin the season," commented team principal Neil Woolridge. "I'm extremely proud of everyone involved. The hard work and commitment shown during the off-season are clearly reflected in these results. The upgrades we implemented on the bakkie performed faultlessly across some demanding sections. A big thank you to every team member and our dedicated partners and sponsors. While this outcome is certainly welcome, we also gathered useful insights over the weekend as we work to improve further for the remaining championship rounds."
With this winning start under their belts, the Castrol Ford NWM Team heads towards the Parys event with confidence for what looks set to be a closely contested 2025 SARRC season.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
proudly ALL THINGS MOTORING
