South African rally-raid competitor Willem Avenant is living proof that a childhood dream can grow into an international reality. Representing South Africa with pride and passion, Willem continues to make his mark on the global off-road racing scene. His most recent success came at Round 1 of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge, where driver Bassam Kronfli and co-driver/navigator Willem Avenant finished second in the T4 class and third overall in the Auto category.
For Avenant, the result was more than just a strong finish. It was a reward for years of dedication, sacrifice, and an unshakable belief in keeping things “lekker” both on and off the track.
From Murraysburg to the World Stage
Born in Murraysburg, Western Cape, Willem grew up far from the world of international motorsport. Yet, as a young boy, he was captivated by the Dakar Rally, watching it on television with his father every January. “At six years old, I told my dad that one day I would do it,” he recalls. “That became the main goal of my life.”
Years later, that promise came true. Willem successfully completed the 2025 Dakar Rally, one of the most challenging editions in the event’s long history, with only 37 percent of riders making it to the finish line. For him, it was a personal triumph and a dream fulfilled.
A Self-Made Motorsport Journey
Willem’s story is not one of inherited opportunity, but of sheer determination. He did not come from a racing family, yet through perseverance, he built a name for himself in international rally racing. Today, his family is very much part of the journey.
Competing in both motorbike and side-by-side (SxS) categories, Willem’s racing career has taken him around the world. In 2022, he competed in the Baja Rally, where he finished first in the Rally 1 class and eighth overall. Since then, he has gone on to serve as Race Director for the Baja Rally, a role he has proudly held for three consecutive years. His leadership and deep understanding of rally navigation have earned him great respect, and he has already been invited back as Race Director for the 2026 Baja Rally.
A Passion for Teaching and Training
Beyond racing, Willem is one of only a handful of ASO/Dakar-accredited navigation trainers and coaches in the world. He provides specialized training in navigation and roadbook reading for aspiring rally and Dakar competitors, helping others sharpen their skills and achieve their racing goals.
“I have a few South African clients who trained with me before the SA Safari Rally,” Willem explains. “They all did really well, which makes me incredibly proud.”
In addition, Willem has recently expanded into rider and driver training, partnering with another professional to offer comprehensive rally preparation programs. His goal is to make rally training more accessible, especially for those dreaming of Dakar. “This is becoming a big part of my life now,” he says. “I want to help others reach their potential, and hopefully, it will help me find my way back to Dakar in 2026.”
Flying the South African Flag with Pride
Representing South Africa on the world stage is something Willem takes to heart. “I am known by my slogan, Just be lekker, and I teach everyone what lekker means,” he says with a smile. His easy-going nature and positive attitude have earned him great respect in the rally community. Surrounded by a growing number of South Africans competing in the United Arab Emirates this season, Willem feels right at home among familiar faces.
The Mind Behind the Helmet
Every racer has a ritual, and for Willem, quiet reflection is key. Before every race, he takes time to meditate and focus. He describes his racing style as focused, consistent, and tenacious, qualities that serve him well in the harsh and unpredictable world of rally-raid competition.
When the helmets come off, Willem enjoys the simpler pleasures of life. He has a love for good red wine, hiking, travelling, and spending quality time with his family. He laughs when asked about life outside of racing, saying, “Is there life outside of racing? Well, maybe just a little.”
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Willem hopes to be remembered as a racer who was friendly, positive, and generous in spirit. His goal is to introduce as many people as possible to the world of rally racing and to show young South Africans that anything is possible with determination and hard work.
“It is totally possible,” he says. “Dakar was my dream when I was six years old, sitting on the couch watching the highlights with my dad. If a six-year-old me from Murraysburg could dream it and eventually do it, then so can anyone else.”
With several more rounds of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge still ahead, Willem’s journey is far from over. Guided by his “Just be lekker” philosophy, he continues to represent South Africa with pride, perseverance, and an infectious passion that inspires everyone around him.
