The dust has settled after the 2022 Taylor’s Africa Classic Car Safari Rally that took place in early May. Friends of Hwange is a beneficiary, and was delighted to assist with logistics. Once again, a wonderful, fun time was had by all who were fortunate enough to take part. The organization was superb with every detail pre-planned and executed to perfection, the people were amazing, the car entries up to the challenge and even the weather played its part with balmy days throughout the adventure.
Nesbitt Castle in Bulawayo was a fitting venue for the classy Black Tie cocktail evening that kicked off the event. Excellent food, good music and the palpable excitement of the Rally participants made for a great evening.
Dawn patrol the next day found the 4×4 vehicles gathered together and ready to go. The two-wheel drive vehicles had a more leisurely start, although in retrospect that may have been a mistake. Day 1 was a long and dusty road through some tough conditions. Special accolade to the Red Dane Mombe Kombi that made it out of Bulawayo successfully this year!
The rally folk were tailed by two Friends of Hwange teams, members from the Zimbabwe Hunters and Guides Association (ZPGA), two ACE medics and most importantly, the crew of 12 Bulawayo “Magic Mechanics”. The ability of this amazing team of guys to “Make a Plan” to get down and out vehicles back up and running must be seen to be believed!!
Hwange National Park was the destination on the first day’s drive with Hwange Safari Lodge hosting most people that night. However, new this year was a group of “campers” who chose to stay in varied Main Camp accommodation. The bar at the Waterbuck’s Head restaurant was fully stocked with super-cold beverages and supper was provided in the form of an excellent evening braai. A full English breakfast next day was also on offer. Well done to the cooks.
The co-operation of the Main Camp Area Manager and staff was exceptional and must be highly commended. From their side, the Park’s Authorities are grateful for the support and are happy for the event to become a permanent fixture on their annual calendar.
The drive from Main Camp to Robins next day commenced early with Friends of Hwange (FOH) smoothing vehicle entry into the Park. A full, and busy day ensued with Rally cars stopping off at various viewpoints along the way. The bush was very thick and lush, nevertheless a good variety of wildlife was seen.
The final day’s drive to Vic Falls was relatively short and easy. A pit-stop close to town to sample quantities of suitably chilled beer provided by The River Brewing Company sparked an early celebratory party and was a scene of exhilaration and relief for teams to have made it successfully to the end. An evening Sundowner cruise on the peacefully flowing Zambezi River and the final Shearwater dinner followed by dancing was a fitting end to a wonderful adventure.
From a FOH perspective, sincere appreciation must go to Jess Bray for collecting donations at the final dinner. In addition, a few exuberantly generous pledges were made on the night, and if genuine, those individuals can reach with Dave on his mobile phone number below. Contributions collected by Taylor’s Africa prior to the event increased the total raised for the park. Our most grateful thanks to you all.
The work done by Friends of Hwange Trust relies totally on donations. Contrary to misleading information that has been circulating recently, we must reassure our loyal donors and the public at large that the more than 100 boreholes currently working in HNP have been equipped with solar powered pumps for the most part supplied by FOH in the southern areas of the park and Bhejane Trust in the north. The private lodges have assisted with water supplies within their concessions.
Not only do ventures like the Safari Rally help raise necessary funds but they create huge awareness and goodwill. A massive shout out to Charles Taylor and Bernie Lees-May of Taylor’s Africa for pulling off the Safari Rally successfully once again this year. Further appreciation must go to the Taylor’s Africa back-up staff, the ZPGA guides, the FOH teams, the ACE medics and finally to Godfrey Walsh and his truly amazing team of Magic Mechanics from Bulawayo. Friends of Hwange Trust feels privileged to have been part of this event.
Dave Dell – Mobile phone: +263 712 630152
