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Chester is SA's G4 man

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Despite intense competition from his fellow South African, Devlin Fogg, Chester qualified and will now undertake a training and preparation programme in readiness for the rigours of the Challenge itself.

The South African team really put in a sterling effort and is set to be a firm favourite for the Challenge.

The event kicks off in New York on March 30, with 16 competitors enduring four consecutive weeks, four time zones and intense physical and mental competition.

The international selections took place at the 200 ha Eastnor Castle estate, home to the Land Rover Driving Experience and a world-renowned centre for off-road driving excellence.

During the programme a total of 32 prospective competitors, two from each of 16 participating countries, were put through a series of demanding assessment sessions, including GPS and navigation, off road driving, mountain biking, climbing/abseiling and kayaking.

The purpose of the event was not only to select the final competitor for each nation based on quantitative scoring systems, but also to train all 32 competitors in each discipline to give them all the skills and knowledge required to complete the Challenge safely.

In the event of the selected competitor being unable to take part, the reserve competitor will step in to fly their national flag.

Chester Foster was overwhelmed to learn of his selection: "I am absolutely ecstatic - it hasn't sunk in yet, but I'm getting there! I just want to enjoy the feeling at this moment with my team mate.

"Unfortunately, one of us had to win, and I'm happy it was me, but in the same breath it is sad that we couldn't do it as a team because we've worked so well as a duo."

Paul Melhuish, managing director for Land Rover South Africa, commented: "We were overwhelmed by the level of professionalism and team spirit demonstrated by all the competitors this past week.

"Despite the fact that they were subjected to harsh weather conditions and grueling activities, everyone turned in a great performance and it was very difficult to make the final selection.

"We will be right behind Chester as he battles it out in the Challenge itself against the other 15 nations"

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