The first four stages have proven this event’s track record as one of high attrition: Gugu Zulu (BP VW Polo Vivo A7), Megan Verlaque (BP VW Polo Vivo S1400), and Morne Janse van Rensburg (VW Polo Vivo S1600) have succombed to mechanical problems and have been ruled out of the rally.
Japie van Niekerk (VW Polo S2000) has rolled out, so has Tjaart Conradie (Toyota Auris S1600). Reports claim both crews to be okay.
The stages have been run in sunny and warm conditions, with the expected rain holding off so far.
Jan Habig (BP VW Polo Vivo S2000) has surprised the field with his blistering pace, taking advantage of the tricky and technical nature of the route.
The Castrol Toyota Auris S2000s of Leeroy Poulter and Johnny Gemmell are chasing after the leader, but Habig has managed to eke out a slender but controlled lead.
In S1600, an intense battle rages between Ashley Haigh-Smith (Ford Fiesta R2), Craig Trott (Toyota RunX S1600) and Christoff Snyders (VW Polo S1600).
There are four stages remaining for Day One, two gravel and two asphalt.
SS4 Stage Winner: Habig – 6:20.8
1) Habig – 53m 50.4s
2) Poulter +6.3s
3) Gemmell +13.2s
4) Fekken +20.5s
5) Rautenbach +90.3s
5) JP Damseaux +90.3s
7) Moosa +111.9s
8) Wilken +113.2s
9) Kuun +179.4s
10) Cronje +183.2s