Date: 23-May-2011
It’s nation against nation at Safari 2011
As word about Australia’s version of the infamous Dakar offroad endurance event grows around the world, so does the number of international entrants keen to see whether Australian riders and drivers live up to their reputation for fearlessness and talent.
With this in mind, organisers of the 2011 Australasian Safari are introducing a new international element to the event, to be known as the Nations Cup.
The Nations Cup is open to Moto and Quad competitors in a team format with up to four riders in each team representing their country.
All levels of competitors can enter, but they must be non-Australian residents.
Event Director Justin Hunt said the Nations Cup concept was already attracting interest with a team from the USA entered.
“We’ve had competitors from a range of countries over recent years and as more Aussies compete in Dakar, the Safari world is growing.
“The Nations Cup gives us a chance to give a greater focus and appeal to international competitors plus add a new dimension to the Safari.
“We want to encourage more international competitors to experience the unique and challenging conditions of the Aussie outback.
“Thanks to the assistance of TEAM USA’s Justin Malley, we have a team from the USA registered, and a fair amount of interest from riders in South Africa, New Zealand, India and Japan.
The concept for the Nations Cup is based on a team of riders working together, sharing resources and building points throughout the event.
Other requirements for entry into the Nations Cup are that riders can only be in one team for the duration of the event, and moto pairs are counted as one entry in the team. The best three place getters in each team earn leg points, and the team with the most points at the event of the event is the winner of the Nations Cup Trophy.
The Australasian Safari receives strong international exposure through a television package screened around the world. The 2010 event was seen in over 100 countries and it is envisaged the television coverage will expand again in 2011.
Expressions of Interest for the Australasian Safari are open and a Pre Event Guide is available for interested entrants at www.australasiansafari.com.au.
The final date for close of entries is Friday 12 August. Details on the course are being finalised and will be announced closer to the event.
The Western Australia Government supports the Australasian Safari through Eventscorp, a division of Tourism WA.
For more information on the event and to find out how to enter, visit www.australasiansafari.com.au or follow the updates on Facebook and Twitter at @austsafari.
Media contact: Janine Pittaway, Bright Communications +61 (0)418911796
[email protected]
