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GARDEN ROUTE NEWS & VIDEOS - The fourth Garden Route 4x4 Expo and Outdoor Show was a blast.
Held in November since 2019, a decision was made to move the event to April. Judging from the numbers in attendance, this was a superb decision. From 29 April to 2 May, attendees had a knock-out time at the event, in great autumn weather.
The event was hosted in Bartelsfontein, where substantial development has been done to accommodate an outdoor show. Apart from two truly challenging 4x4 tracks, where participants were queuing daily to test their mettle, a drag racing track was added this year.
From Saturday, 30 April, Fords, Toyotas, Mercedeses, Suzukis and more did not hold back from challenging one another to reach the finish line first. At first, the 500 track was open to 4x4s only, but soon to follow were 4x2s and eventually also normal sedans.
Being a pet-friendly event, the pooches in fact stole the show. Dog owners clearly relished showing off their pets and a dog show might take place at the event in future. Project Blessing, a charity that focuses on reaching out to pets in the Sonskynvallei area, was given a platform to show off its work and was given a much-needed donation.
Excellent entertainment was a major drawcard, with the highlights being performances by The Voice SA's Fatman, who drew a capacity crowd. Jakkie Louw, who features Mossel Bay in his hit song, Drie Pikkewyne, also had the young ones eating out of his hand during his puppet shows. Early B and Justin Vega provided the closing act on Monday, 2 May.
The 4x4 track was busy all weekend.
Chair of the Mossel Bay Business Chamber, Albert Wiffen congratulated the organisers, Kallie and Petra Sachse, on their staying power in hosting the event. Wiffen spoke at the official opening on Saturday.
"We need these kinds of events on the Garden Route, which is an ideal outdoor destination. To all the exhibitors and festival goers, thank you for boosting the local economy."
Petra Sachse said there were plans to utilise further the festival grounds, which may include a camping event with entertainment.
Sachse also said that a repeat of the 4x4 expo and outdoor show later this year was being considered.
Glamour granny Ethel surprised rapper Early B on stage during his performance of his hit song, Ben Ten. Photos: Julian Scholtz and Cornelle Carstens
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