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Odyssey '13: Semi-finalists named

Ford has named 20 semi-finalists in Phase 2 of its Ranger Odyssey Africa 2013 competition - a 4x4 challenge over some of Africa’s toughest terrain.

The 20 came from hundreds of entries based on their technical experience and skill.

OFF TO BOOT CAMP

The semi-finalists will compete in a “boot camp” to prepare them for challenges encountered during the expedition. Based on their performance at the four-day camp 10 finalists will be chosen for the expedition which will start in Kenya on June 24 2013.

All contestants are 4x4 enthusiasts but some have notched up more kilometres than others.

Aaron Thornton, who runs an IT support business, has spent 10 years travelling in South Africa and recently joined a 4x4 community.

Andre Kearns, a former South African National Parks worker, has experienced some of this country’s toughest terrain and has cultivated a serious love of conservation through his regular 4x4 adventures.

‘TOO ROUGH FOR A GIRL’

Donatella d’Aloisio, a Durban restaurateur has been determined to prove that she is tough enough for Africa ever since a guy she was dating told her that her dream of driving through the continent in a 4x4 were ridiculous because “Africa is too tough for a girl”.

Mxolisi Mabaso, a minibus taxi driver from Cape Town, also has something to prove. According Mabaso, the bad rap that many taxi drivers receive “is unfounded” and by participating in the Ford Ranger Odyssey Africa 2013 he hopes to prove this to other participants.

Gavin Golightly, Ford SA's marketing manager, said: “We are thrilled by the semi-finalists and excited to see how they perform at the boot camp.

“Every one of our top 20 has a strong personality. It’ll be interesting to see how team dynamics play out when the contestants are stretched. We’re confident we will walk away from the boot camp with a group of determined, enthusiastic, skilled and tough contestants perfectly suited to the strengths of the Ranger.”

The finalists will be announced on Ford's website on June 3 2013.

Top 20 semi-finalists
Aaron Thornton
Alex Cruickshanks
Amantle Mokubung
Andre Kearns
Arlin Visagie
Bernard Hollander
Brad Levin
Bronwyn Bridger
Chloe Boshoff
Dania Petrik
Donatella Daloisio
Kugesh Reddy
Louise Illman
Mxolisi Mabaso
Paula Smith
Renaldo Ogle
Richard Rammoneng
Ryno Swart
Shaun Coetzee
Wisaal Anderson

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