Over the past few weeks, Adventure Afrika has been punting 2025 Toyota Fortuner Challenge, building up to the grand finale of this adrenaline-fueled event. The competition, which has become a staple on South Africa’s adventure calendar, did not disappoint, delivering excitement, grit, and a worthy champion. Adding to the buzz, the highly anticipated Toyota Fortuner GR-Sport launch coincided with the event, further cementing the Fortuner’s reputation as an icon of endurance and capability.
The 2025 Toyota Fortuner Challenge saw 27-year-old software engineer and part-time cross fit coach Hennie Terreblanche claim victory alongside his hero teammate, Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa driver Saood Variawa. The duo showcased remarkable strength, strategy, and teamwork, overcoming a series of demanding challenges set in the picturesque Overberg region.
This annual event, presented by Quartz engine oil, pairs everyday South Africans with sporting legends to battle it out for the ultimate prize – a brand-new Toyota Fortuner GR-Sport. This year’s hero lineup featured showjumping star Nicole Horwood, Toyota Cheetahs captain Victor Sekekete, Kaizer Chiefs legend Willard Katsande, and of course, Saood Variawa. Each hero was paired with a competitor representing different media partners: IOL, SuperSport, Arena Holdings, and Media24/Netwerk24.
Set over two gruelling days, the Fortuner Challenge tested both physical and mental endurance with an array of tasks linked to event partners. Contestants tackled the Total Energies and Total Quartz Lifeguard Challenge, Thule Night Golf Course Escape, Toyota 4×4 Challenge, Specialized Foothills Adventure, Salomon Arena Challenge, and the Garmin Grand Finale. Hennie and Saood’s unwavering determination and consistent performance saw them rise above their rivals to claim top honours.
As the champion of the 2025 Toyota Fortuner Challenge, Hennie drives away with the ultimate reward – a Toyota Fortuner GR-Sport. His prize package also includes top-tier adventure gear, such as Thule accessories, a Specialized mountain bike, a Garmin watch, Salomon gear, and a Total Energies fuel card, setting him up for many more adventures to come.
The excitement wasn’t limited to the competitors alone. The Toyota Fortuner Challenge engaged fans nationwide through daily prize giveaways, where the public could vote for their favourite hero and stand a chance to win Salomon vouchers, Garmin fitness trackers, Thule backpacks, Specialized bikes, and fuel vouchers.
The 2025 Toyota Fortuner Challenge once again highlighted the adventurous spirit of South Africans while showcasing the rugged versatility of the Fortuner GR-Sport. With endurance, teamwork, and perseverance at its core, this challenge remains a thrilling showcase of what it takes to push beyond limits, both for the competitors and the legendary SUV that gives it its name.
