Ford SA has announced the winner of the inaugural Ranger Odyssey Africa: Alex Cruickshanks, 28, from Randpark Ridge, beat out nine other hopefuls to the ultimate prize: a fully accessorised Odyssey-edition Ranger Double Cab 3.2 XLT M/T 4x4.
Cruikshanks, a management consultant, used his sporting prowess as a multiple SA rowing champion to his advantage during the gruelling 22-day cross-Africa expedition that saw 10 specially selected contestants tackle six countries and 7860km over some of the continent's toughest and most beautiful terrain.
Throughout the Odyssey, which navigated its way from Nairobi in Kenya, through Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana, Mozambique and finally back into South Africa, the participants were evaluated by the expedition leader and driving instructors, as well as a media specialist, all of whom had first-hand experience of each of the contestants every day.
CLEAR WINNER
The criteria included convoy and off-road driving skills, vehicle maintenance and care, team interaction, individual skills, problem solving, leadership, adaptability, responsibility and communication abilities. The contestants also had to submit a daily blog throughout the trip which was uploaded to the Ranger Odyssey website.
The contestants received a score out of 10 for each aspect every day, and when the scores were tallied at the end of the expedition, Cruikshanks emerged as the clear winner.
Ford SA marketing manager Gavin Golightly commented: "Alex is not only extremely skilled, but also a very calm individual who works well in a team.
"The feedback we received from the judges on Alex's abilities, his attitude and unshakeable temperament makes us confident that the right person won."