There is a magic to motoring that transcends time. Whether it’s the seductive curves of a classic roadster or the cutting-edge precision of a modern supercar, cars have an uncanny ability to stir emotions – freedom, nostalgia, and even healing.
That was the overwhelming feeling as I immersed myself in the launch of the fourth edition of the Cape 1000 Rally – a celebration of automotive artistry where timeless elegance meets the open road. The launch started from The Archive in the centre of Cape Town and included a lunch stop at Merrendal Wine Estate, in Durbanville.
In a stroke of serendipity, I found myself behind the wheel of a pristine 1969 MGB Roadster, its white paint gleaming under the Cape Town sun. It was a moment of beautiful contrast – just as the futuristic MG Cyberster makes its highly anticipated South African debut, here I was, piloting a piece of history. The two cars, separated by decades, were bound by the same unrelenting passion for driving – a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates the Cape 1000 Rally.
South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive
Dubbed “South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive”, the Cape 1000, proudly sponsored by Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth , is far more than a rally. It is a meticulously curated journey through breathtaking landscapes – winding mountain passes, dramatic coastal roads and vineyard-laden valleys – where the world’s most exquisite classic cars, modern collectibles and supercars come to life.
Inspired by the legendary Mille Miglia, this invitation-only event is an ode to automotive heritage, craftsmanship, and the simple yet profound joy of driving.
The 2025 Cape 1000 will kick off on 16 March with an elegant launch dinner at Scuderia Ferrari in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, setting the tone for the days ahead. From there, the rally embarks on a scenic route from the Cape Culinary School and will carve through Hermanus and other picturesque destinations, before returning to Cape Town on 21 March, where the journey reaches its crescendo.
An Exclusive Affair of Luxury and Camaraderie
Participation in the Cape 1000 is as exclusive as the cars themselves. Enthusiasts and collectors may enter either a classic car, modern sports car, or supercar, but only 65 entrants are selected after a rigorous vetting process.
The entry fee – R115 000 per team of two – secures an experience that extends beyond the road. Over four days and five nights, participants indulge in the finest hotels, world-class restaurants, boutique wine estates and an array of curated luxury experiences. It’s a celebration of refinement, performance, and the camaraderie that unites motoring aficionados.
The final list of entrants will be revealed on 10 February, heightening the anticipation for this prestigious event.
Motoring with a Heart
Beyond the thrill of the drive, the Cape 1000 is also about giving back. A portion of proceeds from entrants goes to charitable causes, most notably the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA), which is dedicated to empowering individuals with spinal cord injuries and physical disabilities. In addition, the Motorsport Legends Benevolent Fund benefits from the rally, ensuring that the spirit of motoring extends beyond the road and into the lives of those in need.
A Legacy of Passion and Performance
Organised by Ross and Vanessa Crichton, the Cape 1000 Rally is an event rooted in heritage, storytelling and the relentless pursuit of adventure.
“This is probably the only event in South Africa that attracts both classic cars and various classes of sports cars,” says Ross Crichton. “Three-quarters of our entries are usually classic cars, and that’s what makes it so special – it’s a gathering of enthusiasts from all over the world who truly appreciate the art of motoring.”
Whether you’re behind the wheel of an iconic classic, admiring from the sidelines, or simply dreaming of the open road, the Cape 1000 is a journey that embodies the art of luxury and performance – a celebration of speed, style and the enduring romance of the drive.
