As the race begins, it is worth noting that no vehicle make has matched the achievement of Nissan in recent times. Nissan hard body's continued dominance of the event produced the nickname Mantshwabisi for both the vehicle and the race. It is not surprising that this weekend, all eyes will be on Mantshwabisi, the Nissan again. With no Atang Makgaekgenene and Bucks Carolin of Jimco this time to rival the favourite vehicle, it is likely to be another success for the hard body.
When Nissan's reign from 2002 was interrupted in 2004 and 2006, it was all thanks to the now retired Jimco duo. Nissan feels as strong as ever with its traditional winning team of Hans Grobbler and Francois Jordan available again to try and extend Mantshwabisi's record. That is not all. Nissan's Richard Leeke, who between 2002 and 2004 won Nissan the titles as navigator for Grobbler is back this time partnered by one Duncan Vos. The updated list of entries indicate there are 80 vehicles taking part in the weekend race and Nissan is represented by 15 entrants.
Jimco has three cars and is represented by less heralded drivers. Sandmaster, which has been missing the title by a whisker over the last few years, has fielded four vehicles. Although Toyota, the race sponsors have not made any impact in recent times, they look like a team ready to reclaim past glory. With 16 entries, they have the highest number of vehicles in the race.
Toyota last tasted glory in 1999 through its dealership vehicle, Land Rover, which won the race for a record seven times. Toyota Hilux has also won the event three times. This achievement resulted in Toyota dealers here using the motto; Botswana is Toyota Country, as their brand led the sales for a very long time. Another vehicle category that looks determined to come out of this weekend action with something is Adenco Bat, which has fielded 14 competitors in the race.
After missing in action since 2004, the motorbike category returns to the competition this weekend with up to 129 entrants.
