This blog post may come as a surprise to you, as it features images from a Belgian Rally event. Working on this project has been a privilege, and I look forward to sharing what I have learnt.

At the outset, my project seemed simple, but it took a completely different direction. I contacted Tom Boonen, the legendary cyclist, to inquire about collaborating for this inaugural rally event. Tom graciously invited me to participate and thus began the adventure of devising a plan. Tom participated in his first Belgian Rally in 2023 and planned to give his all in 2024 to compete for the Belgian Rally title. On board a rally car of the Skoda WRC.

The initial plan was to test new Canon materials. Currently, I aim to enhance my photographic work while still enjoying it without feeling pressured. Additionally, I am interested in observing how my body and mind react to this endeavour. The past few weeks have been challenging due to a heavy workload and lack of time for rest, which has taken a toll on my physical well-being. I want to test all to see what I want in my photographic work.

The event started on Friday with a media and press presentation at the main square of Sint Truiden.

Some additional pictures include the father of multiple F1 champion Max Verstappen, who is also a former F1 driver and the presentation of the complete top rally riders line-up.

The technical control on Friday was a thorough process, with all details being checked. The paddock was located at an old airfield base—some photographs of the technical control and paddock.

The paddock and its diverse rally cars landscape offer many interesting details. In this case, age is not always important, but the passion for sports and cars certainly is.

On Friday, the riders embarked on discovering the special stages where they compete for the best time. They always work with a co-driver who assists them in setting the best time and navigating the road. To prepare for the competition, rally drivers take small cars onto the stages and make detailed notes of the route, ensuring a clear understanding of the terrain. This approach avoids the use of rally cars on public roads.

We ended our Friday afternoon with windy and cloudy weather. The sun gave it a special atmosphere, and everything was ready for Saturday’s rally, where the crowd could enjoy the highest level of Belgian racing.

See you tomorrow!

Thank you