TWO Southsiders have been announced as finalists in a major driving competition taking place in Morocco next month.
Robert Waters and Jason Plunkett from Killiney will have the driving experience of a lifetime when they compete in the Conti4x4trophy, which is run by Continental Tyres.
Robert and co-driver Jason will be driving one of 14 Hummers, exploring the Atlas mountains and the Sahara Desert, crossing breath-taking scenery and fiery sand dunes, as they navigate their way through rocky gorges and fording spectacular rivers.
The six day trip to Morocco is at the beginning of September and the local duo will first fly to Casablanca before travelling on to Ouarzazate, nicknamed
‘the door to the desert’.
The area is popular with Hollywood location scouts and top movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Living Daylights, The Mummy and Gladiator have been filmed there.
It’s also where the Conti4x4trophy begins during which drivers will navigate the difficult terrain during the day and be pampered at night in a selection of luxury hotels.
They’ll also have a true Bedouin experience with one night spent camping under the stars.
Robert and Jason are taking part in the event after their performance in a competition run over 12 weeks were 28 pairs of drivers were invited to a qualifying event at the Land Rover test track.
Each pair had their skills and aptitude tested and they had to demonstrate their off-road driving aptitude and a range of other abilities. Robert and Jason were one of 14 teams selected.
IT consultant Robert, said:
“I’m very excited about the trip. I feel fortunate and grateful to have made it this far. We’ve never done anything like this before, and we’re looking forward to an incredible adventure.
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Jason added:
“I can’t wait to take on the challenge, meet some amazing people, see mind-boggling scenery and have some great laughs along the way.
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Peter Robb, spokesperson from Continental Tyres said:
“This is truly a once in a lifetime driving experience – Robert and Jason can expect a real challenge. We’re really looking forward to them being part of an amazing adventure!
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For more information about the Conti4x4trophy, visit www.conti4x4trophy.co.uk.