03 Feb 2021

Motorcycle rider, Brady Armstrong, has promised the best performance in the Dakar Rally 2022.

Speaking in an interview with BOPA, the 23-year-old Armstrong promised to raise the Botswana flag high in the Dakar Rally, following outstanding performance by Ross Branch and Vincent Crosbie in the race.

He pointed out that Branch had helped him to reach his dream of participating in the Dakar Rally, stating that Branch would also train and educate him on the rally.

Armstrong said in preparation for the Dakar Rally 2022, he would take part in local and international motor sport competitions to appraise his commitment and competiveness in motor sport.

He noted that the Dakar Rally was complex and that it was important to learn and familiarise himself with the use of technologies mounted on the bike that help to navigate the road and other important things during the ride.

Armstrong said he would use the experience he gained during national competitions like the 1 000km Desert Race and others to prepare for the Dakar Rally 2022.

He said he expected to use the 1 000km Desert race competitions, junior competitions and regional competitions to prepare for Dakar Rally 2022.

Armstrong said he started his riding career with Lobelo Racing Club in Francistown, where he excelled in junior races and also competed in regional competitions in Zambia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

He applauded Botswana Motor Sport Federation for its continued support for motor sport growth and development in Botswana.

Armstrong said he appreciated the association for efforts in developing and modernising motor sport in Botswana, as most riders and drivers had been affiliating to international motor sport associations.

He further encouraged young Batswana to invest in becoming riders and drivers of motor sport to grow Botswana tourism.

He said starting training at a tender age  could sharpern their skills and help in realising one’s dream of becoming a rider.

For his part, Armstrong’s trainer, who is also his father, Gregg Armstrong said he was pleased with his son’s performance in local and international competitions adding that he was hopeful that he would do well in the Dakar Rally 2022.

“Since he has completed his schooling in South Africa, he would train in Botswana and gain technical advice and guidance from Branch,” he added.

The older Armstrong said they were focusing on technical and mental aspects of the training, adding that they were currently in discussions with their team in Netherlands, to have a mini competition that could prepare the rider for the 2022 race. ENDS