Porsche racing icon Zwart refers to the East African Safari as 'likely the toughest event I've ever participated in.'

      Porsche

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      If racing a classic Porsche across Africa seems daunting, know that one of the most seasoned racers globally shares that sentiment. Jeff Zwart, who has participated in rallies worldwide and is a regular at the Pikes Peak hill climb with several class victories, recently completed the East African Safari Classic Rally in an air-cooled 911, describing it as “probably the hardest event I’ve ever done.”

      The difficulty is apparent. A Porsche press release outlines that the rally spans 1,379 competitive miles (excluding transit stages) over nine days, featuring ample mud, dust, and heat. Originating in 1953 as the East African Safari Rally, it served as both a competitive event and a celebration marking the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II during the final days of colonialism. The rally traverses Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, remaining a significant event on the international rallying circuit for decades before being revived in 2003 to cater to classic cars.

      “In the 1970s, this was deemed the most challenging automotive event in the world, and I don’t think it has become any easier,” Zwart stated in the release. “But the views have been unmatched, the other competitors and the support crews have been wonderful, and driving a classic 911 feels like home to me.”

      Zwart and co-driver Alex Gelsomino were in great company this year, with more than half of the approximately 60 cars at the rally being 911s. This included the winner, a car driven by British endurance racer Harry Hunt with Steve McPhee as the co-driver. Zwart and Gelsomino finished in 17th place. Their car—a specially prepared early 1970s F-Series 911—endured “significant wear and tear” to complete the rally, according to Zwart. They faced suspension damage on day three and dealt with a transmission issue on the second-to-last day, requiring Zwart to drive nearly 25 miles in first gear.

      Gelsomino was a co-driver for the late Ken Block, including during Block’s participation in the East African Safari Classic Rally in 2022. Sharing the journey with him held special significance for Zwart, who collaborated with Block on some of his most notable video projects.

      “I recall Ken mentioning how incredible this rally was,” Zwart reflected. “He said, ‘Jeff, you’ve got to do it,’ so being here with Alex as my co-driver feels like coming full circle. He has been fantastic, and at times it has been quite emotional for both of us.”