One amateur moto and auto entrant will have an additional reason to celebrate after crossing the finish line of the 2013 Australasian Safari, where they will gain free entry into the 2014 Dakar Rally through the Dakar Challenge.

Australasian Safari event director Justin Hunt said this was a special honour, because only four off-road events worldwide are chosen to host the Dakar Challenge.

“We’ve known for some years now that the Australasian Safari is our region’s toughest off-road motorsport event and provides a testing ground for those who aspire to compete in Dakar,” said Hunt.

“The renewal of this agreement gives the Australasian Safari international recognition and further credibility as a premier off-road motorsport event in the Asia-Pacific region. We look forward to once again giving amateur off-road competitors a chance to realise their dream to race in Dakar.”

Xavier Gavory from Dakar organising body ASO said he was delighted to take the Dakar Challenge experience in Australia to the next level.

“What we’ve found here is the real spirit of cross county racing with sportsmanship, a tough route, wild territories and breathtaking scenery,” said Gavory. “With two rewards on offer, the spirit of competition will be even higher between contenders of the Challenge.

“Having the Challenge at Safari will bring enthusiasm, passion, and the Dakar fever throughout Australia and the Asia Pacific region.”

A condition of entry into the Dakar Challenge is that entrants must never have participated in the Dakar, nor have finished in the top ten of an FIM all terrain rally.

The Australasian Safari, known as one of the toughest and most challenging motorsport events in the world will run from 19-27 September through the outback of Western Australia.