" The route was perfect to show of beauty and diversity of East Africa and its people."
Rob Barbour -Car No. 37

Dad and I chose to enter the Safari to relive fond memories of his rallying days in the 60s and 70s. I had never done one and was really happy that I could do one with Dad.

We chose the VW beetle because it was the car that Dad was most successful in, because they are generally reliable and simple to fix and because we had a limited budget.

We also chose to do it without a service crew.

We knew we would want for some horsepower but we also knew we would be there at the end.

The rally lived up to all our expectations and more.

The organisation was fantastic considering the logistics. The route was perfect to show of beauty and diversity of East Africa and its people. We had the pleasure of absorbing the beauty of the Usambara mountains stage at 40km/ hour due to a broken front strut that was stabilised and tied up with wood, sisel string and bicycle inner tube!

But yes, despite the toughness of the event - we got to the end and completed every stage under our own steam and with no help, despite some late nights under the car with the big hammer.

I have developed a healthy respect, love and admiration for a very sturdy 30 year old car, a slightly older but still sturdy father and a land that has held it's beauty despite being as old as time itself.

Thanks for the experience.

Regards,

Rob Barbour
Car No. 37