New route, new challenges for 2012 Australasian Safari

Over more than 3,000 kms, the terrain on offer this September 21 - 29 will comprise sandy creeks, river crossings and sand hills, rather than the paddocks, flats and fencelines of past years. Organisers have hinted that the recently-finalised course will feature "some impressive and extreme coastal stages."

While the course is shorter than last year's Safari (by almost 1,000 kms), competitors will be forced to race at a lower average competition speed due to the technically challenging and rough terrain. The course will be complex for riders and drivers alike.

The 2012 running of the Safari starts in Perth, heading north up the coast to Geraldton, through the WA wheatbelt and on to Murchison, Carnarvon and the big stations near the start of Ningaloo reef, before finishing back at Geraldton. Most of the route is on privately-owned land, representing one of the few opportunities competitors will have to experience the course and terrain on offer.

Executive Director for Eventscorp (principal sponsor of the Australasian Safari), Gwyn Dolphin, said it was great to see the 2012 Safari travel through some of WA's most stunning and diverse landscapes in the Coral Coast and Golden Outback regions.
"The television coverage of this year's event is guaranteed to be spectacular, and will provide valuable national and international exposure for the region and the State as a whole," Mr Dolphin said.

The 2012 Australasian Safari runs from September 21st to 29th. For details on entry or to register interest, visit www.australasiansafari.com.au

Moto entrants have the new opportunity of entering the Dakar Challenge, with the highest placed MOTO competitor who has registered for the Dakar Challenge receiving free entry into Dakar 2013. For full regulations on Dakar Challenge entry & eligibility, visit the Safari website.