The first true day of competition at The Rock Trophy 2025 plunged teams into the heart of Romania’s wild and untamed landscape, with a challenging stage in the rugged region of Costești. Famous for its brutal off-road conditions, this area is an off-roading paradise for those who seek extreme challenges, offering a perfect testing ground for the skills, endurance, and preparation of every competitor. As the teams embarked on this demanding leg, they faced a day unlike any other—where the stunning natural beauty of the terrain belied the punishing obstacles that lay ahead.
With the Extreme class covering 130 kilometers and the Challenger class tackling 159 kilometers, the competition was fierce from the very start. The course was meticulously designed to push the boundaries of both the drivers and their vehicles. Teams had to navigate treacherous creack, where the rocky beds and unpredictable water levels presented constant threats. Ravines, deep and narrow, tested the precision of every move as competitors crawled through tight spaces and steep descents. The unpredictable inclines added another layer of difficulty, with sudden shifts in terrain that could catch even the most experienced off-roaders off guard.
Every aspect of this stage demanded perfect coordination between driver and co-driver. It was a true test of not only skill and precision but also teamwork and communication. In this unforgiving environment, a single miscalculation or momentary lapse in judgment could lead to a costly delay or, worse, a full recovery effort. Each team quickly realized that The Rock Trophy is not just about speed; it’s about the ability to navigate challenging terrain with confidence, strategic thinking, and above all, resilience.
For the Extreme class
the rough and relentless landscape of Costești proved to be a welcome challenge. This was their domain—a space where the toughest vehicles and the most seasoned drivers could thrive. But no one was immune to the difficulty of the course; it was a reminder that, in The Rock Trophy, only the most prepared and adaptable teams will succeed.
Today, the Legend participants embarked on a route exclusively designed for them, winding through the stunning landscapes of the Geoagiu Bai area. Surrounded by the lush, untamed beauty of the Romanian forests, they faced their first natural obstacles—challenging terrains that demanded skill, focus, and determination. It was a day marked by pure adventure, where every kilometer brought new emotions, forged stronger bonds among the teams, and laid the groundwork for what promises to be an unforgettable off-road journey.
As competitors pressed on, the day set the tone for the rest of the event: unpredictable, relentless, and packed with challenges that require more than just driving expertise. This was only the beginning of what promises to be a week of unforgettable adventures, where the true spirit of off-road competition will be tested to its absolute limits.
A Challenging First Day of Racing: Intense Battles and Strong Performances Across All Classes
Today was a chance for everyone to face themselves, the natural obstacles of the racecourse, and their competing teams. It was a demanding day for all participants, who, after reaching the bivouac, recovering their strength, and taking care of their vehicles, expressed satisfaction with their performance on this first day of racing.
In the Extreme class, the battle for first place came down to Hardo Mere and Freibergs Ints. With only a few minutes separating them, the Latvian team of Ints claimed the top spot in Leg 1, finishing nearly 7 minutes ahead of Hardo Mere, who secured second place. In third, we have the Polish team of Remigiusz Wutkowski and Piotr Kujawski.
In the Challenger class, Romania dominated by securing the top two spots with minimal time differences between them. The first place in Leg 1 was claimed by Nicolae Burada and Traian Maracineanu, finishing with a time of 04:59:16.96. Just behind them were fellow Romanians Ionel Stan and Bogdan Pascu, with a time of 05:03:38.64. Both teams are racing with Nissan Patrol. In third place, France was represented by Thomas Gallet and Charly Pochez, with a time of 06:48:59.71, racing a Suzuki 419 Proto. It’s important to note that the French team of Daurelle – Hollender has been moved to the Extreme class.
In the Legends class, Estonians Urvo Mannama and Kaarel Gross, driving a Land Rover Defender 90, moved from second place in the prologue to first today, with a time of 02:59:15.00. The Danish team of Per Bertelsen and Jesper Madsen secured second, while third place went to the mixed Romanian-Italian team of Sorin Parvulescu and Maurilio Zani.
Tomorrow, Leg 2 will offer another opportunity for a fierce sporting battle in the race for the top spots in the standings.
What’s Coming Next at The Rock Trophy
Tuesday, April 8 – Geoagiu Bai: The Ultimate Balance
Extreme KM: 84
Challenger KM: 78
This stage delivers a thrilling combination of high-speed sections, extreme technical obstacles, and strategic off-road navigation. The route weaves through twisting forest trails, leading to stunning hilltop vistas that offer breathtaking panoramic views—but there’s no time to admire the scenery for too long.
Here, navigation is everything. A single miscalculation can send teams off-course, costing them valuable time and positions. The key to success lies in balancing precision and aggression, knowing when to push the throttle and when to hold back. The terrain rewards those who can seamlessly adapt, making this a stage where true skill shines.
The Legend teams will leave the Geoagiu Bai bivouac for a special highlight reserved just for them: an unforgettable overnight experience in Costești, outside the service park—an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of Romania and connect with the profound energy of Mother Nature. Far from the hustle and bustle, this moment offers a deeper connection with the landscape and the true spirit of adventure. To ensure comfort and peace of mind, all teams will be provided with proper accommodation, so no additional sleeping equipment is required for this special night under the Romanian sky.
