iTOO Special Risks is proud to announce that it will be the naming sponsor of the legendary DJ Motorcycle Rally this year, which will be held between 9 and 12 March, from Durban and Johannesburg, and is expected to attract dozens of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.
iTOO Artinsure Product Head Gail Bosch says the specialist risk insurer is honoured to be associated with this historical event which is firmly entrenched in South Africa’s motoring history.
The DJ Motor Rally was first held in 1913, as a motorcycle race between Johannesburg and Durban, until 1936, when racing on public roads was banned due to higher speeds and increased volumes of traffic.
The event returned in 1970 as a commemorative rally – rather than a motorcycle race – running from Durban to Johannesburg and has been held annually in this format ever since, except for on two occasions. In 1974 the event was cancelled due to fuel restrictions in South Africa at the time and in 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
From Hillcrest to Benoni
The rally will kick off on 9 March from the Hillcrest Corner Shopping Mall, in Durban, eventually arriving at the Benoni Northern Sports Club on 11 March. A prize giving breakfast for competitors and their supporters, officials and sponsors will mark the end of the rally on the morning of 12 March.
The event is open to pre-1936 motorbikes only and the commemorative run now follows a regularity format. Every year, more than 100 motorcyclists take part, with hundreds of spectators lining the route. As in the past, this year’s event is expected to attracted riders from different parts of the world.
“At iTOO, we understand very well the value of appreciating assets. As an insurer of collectables, the partnership with The DJ Motor Rally aligns with our passion and skill in the collectables industry,” says Bosch.
“We are also passionate about people, building relationships and empowering the communities in which we live. With this collaboration, we can make great impact in society.”
Vintage cars and motorcycles
She notes that the event also ties in with iTOO’s Classic Car Policy, as the participating motorcycles are dated between 1913 and 1936 and the marshals may only use cars manufactured up to 1936. “Our Classic Car Policy covers antique and classic cars that appreciate in value, which are vehicles that are generally older than 20 years,” she says.
“iTOO understands that classic cars require specialist valuations and claims handling techniques. Methodologies vary greatly from standard motor insurance, which is why at iTOO our insurance for classic cars has been designed by leading industry experts, who are all collectors themselves.”
Riders will be competing for the coveted Schlesinger Vase – a large silver trophy – as well as a host of other prizes.