Europe's leading motorcycle manufacturer KTM has contributed over $100,000 in support of an all Australian
team to contend the famed Dakar Rally in 2005. With registration alone costing in excess of $30,000 per rider,
KTM‰Ûªs financial contribution is a welcoming contribution to the 'Motorex KTM Australia Rally Team'.
Australian Safari legends, Andy Caldecott, who will ride the KTM700Rally and KTM450Rally mounted David Schwarz are the
privileged riders who have been selected to represent the team.
Caldecott from Keith in South
Australia, is a four time Australian Safari Champion in the open class and four time outright winner of the
overall safari, while David from Lobethal also in SA, takes his honour as two time Australian Safari Champion
in the 450cc class.
2005 will see a full capacity field With the limit of 230 entries - expanded from 200 in 2004 - already reached.
Last year Andy Caldecott was able to enter Dakar due to the charity of his home township in Keith, SA, (pop 1200)
who raised over $80,000 to send their local hero to the event, as well as various other fund raising events.
Andy‰Ûªs attempt on the 04 Dakar was one of severe
disappointment, when a grass tuft dislodged his foot from his peg on day seven, breaking his ankle and forcing
him to retire from the event.
"My home township were so supportive last year with raising the funds, and although I am extremely gracious I was
hoping not to rely on their generosity to contend Dakar 05. It‰Ûªs great to see a manufacturer like KTM believe in
myself and David Schwarz to invest in an all Australian team.
"We‰Ûªre now hoping outside industry partners may be interested in further sponsorship to contribute to the additional
finance we require to attend Dakar, as all revenue generated goes into the operation of running the team," said Andy.
Expressions of interest for sponsorship opportunities with the Motorex KTM Australia Rally Team can be directed to
KTM Australia on (08) 9351 4785.
Main Photo: David Schwarz
Credit: Octogon
