Chrysler South Africa (Pty) Ltd.

20th January 2014

Jeep partners with the Warrior Race in 2014; South Africa's largest obstacle racing series

Midrand, South Africa – Chrysler South Africa (Pty) Ltd’s Jeep division has joined forces with the Warrior Race, South Africa’s newest and fastest growing sporting series.

Since it's in inception in February 2013 the immensely popular obstacle course racing phenomenon, the Warrior Race, has seen more than 40,000 participants taking part over 8 events spanning 4 provinces.

The meteoric rise of obstacle racing, otherwise known as mud and beer events, has seen the Warrior Race at the forefront of that growth with its larger-than-life obstacles and innovative courses to challenge South African athletes, and non-athletes alike.

It is no surprise that Jeep South Africa spotted the obvious synergy with the Warrior Race and its adventure loving participants. According to Trent Barcroft, CEO of Chrysler SA, “The decision to partner with the Warrior Race is an absolutely brilliant fit for the Jeep Brand. Jeep represents freedom, passion, authenticity and adventure and these are all credentials that speak to the competitors of the Warrior Race perfectly. We are delighted to be the title sponsor in 2014 and are looking forward to a long relationship of mud, sweat and gears…”

Jeep South Africa's title sponsorship means the series will be known as the Jeep Warrior Race in 2014.

According to the Warrior Race organisers, one of the reasons why obstacle racing is so popular is because anyone can participate. All you need is a pair of old running shoes and a great sense for adventure.What makes obstacle racing unique is that it is one of only a few opportunities for athletes from different sporting codes, like cycling, trail running, road running, crossfit, karate, judo, rugby, soccer, hockey, etc. get to compete against each other on a level playing field.

The Warrior Race management team has expressed their excitement about having a premium brand like Jeep involved. "We weren't just looking for a sponsor but rather a partner and we believe that everything the Warrior Race stands for is mirrored in the Jeep brand. Over the last year we have really refined our events and we've come a long way since our first event and we look forward to taking the event to new heights through our partnership with Jeep South Africa."

In 2014 the new middle distance called the Commando will be launched and will cater for those who are not quite ready to compete in the Jeep Warrior Black Ops Races (20km – 30 obstacles).

Bringing in the Commando distance will give competitors the opportunity to really grow into the Jeep Warrior Race. You start off with the Rookie and have fun, when you ready you can upgrade to the Commando Race that has been dubbed the ultimate team building challenge and when you really have enough courage you move on to the Black Ops.

"We believe that with the Commando distance we are also creating a greater awareness for obstacle racing. The Jeep Warrior Race directors have no hesitation in admitting that in their wildest dreams they would not have thought that the Warrior Race would grow to be so popular in the very first year."

What is the appeal of the Jeep Warrior Race?

“The Jeep Warrior Race promises to once again be an absolutely exhilarating experience, no matter what your level of experience or fitness is. Even for people who come here with their families and plan to race with their kids, there will be a race category that will be tailor-made to test their endurance, fitness and mental strength.

“You will get wet and dirty, you will be laughing and crying, but all in all, you will have a blast. But ultimately it is not only about the race it is also about sharing and celebrating your quests and victories with friends and family. We’ve gone the extra mile to ensure oodles of fun for both spectators and participants with great entertainment in the form of live music, DJ’s, beer tents, food stalls and a dedicated product expo area, just to name a few. To get spectators as close to the action as possible, there will also be designated spectator view points on the course.”

What is obstacle course racing?

“Outdoor obstacle courses present playtime for kids and adults, getting down and dirty, facing challenges, overcoming fear while having fun, giving a helping hand and sharing stories of achievements and epic fails afterwards," explains Swart.

The athletes competing will be challenged by world class obstacles that will involve jumping over burning fires, crawling through mud under a wire fence, battling up slippery slopes and running or swimming across water obstacles. There might even be a few variations of rope obstacles that need to be conquered and a few other messy surprises."

The Jeep Warrior Race offers four courses to choose from:

Jeep Warrior Brats Race – 1km, 8 obstacles tailored for the kids.

Jeep Warrior Rookie Race – 6 to 8km, 15 obstacles; aimed at having fun with your mates.

Jeep Warrior Commando Race - 10km 20 obstacles; labelled as the ultimate team building challenge.

Jeep Warrior Black-ops – 18 to 20km, 30 obstacles. This race is for the serious athlete.

About Jeep

Built on more than 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.


The Jeep vehicle lineup consists of the Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, Patriot and Cherokee.

Jeep is a brand of Chrysler South Africa (Pty) Ltd and is sold and serviced at 45 dealerships countrywide.

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Media enquiries:

Richard Sloman

Media Relations Manager

Chrysler South Africa (Pty) Ltd

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Directors: S. T. Barcroft (US) (CEO), A. Hassim (CFO)