On Tuesday, April 8, the competitors of The Rock Trophy 2025 faced a stage that perfectly encapsulated the essence of off-road racing: a thrilling blend of high-speed sections, extreme technical challenges, and the need for precise strategic navigation. Set in the picturesque region surrounding Geoagiu Bai, this stage offered everything a true off-road enthusiast could ask for: rugged terrain, tight forest trails, and stunning hilltop vistas that rewarded those who dared to push the limits. However, while the scenery was undoubtedly breathtaking, there was no time for the teams to get distracted.
With the Extreme class covering 84 kilometers and the Challenger class tackling 78 kilometers, this stage demanded a fine-tuned balance between aggression and precision. High-speed sections allowed competitors to test their vehicles’ performance, but these moments were often interrupted by sudden transitions into extreme technical obstacles. Navigating through narrow forest trails that twisted and turned, the teams had to keep their focus sharp, always ready for what lay around the next corner. The terrain here was unpredictable, and the landscape posed challenges that tested the limits of both man and machine.
As the teams advanced, one thing became clear: in this stage, navigation was everything. A single miscalculation—be it a wrong turn or a missed gate—could send competitors off-course, resulting in a costly loss of time and position. Success depended on the ability to quickly assess each situation, knowing when to push the throttle and when to hold back. The key to conquering Geoagiu Bai’s challenging route was adaptability—being able to switch between high-speed aggression and careful, precise navigation in an instant.
This stage was where true skill and experience shone through, as the competitors needed to demonstrate not only their driving capabilities but also their strategic thinking. The terrain rewarded those who could seamlessly blend speed with control, making it clear that this was a race that required much more than just power—it required a perfect balance between risk and caution.
Today, the Legend participants set off on a route exclusively crafted for them—an engaging and scenic trail that unfolded through the breathtaking landscapes of the Geoagiu Bai area. Immersed in the lush, untamed beauty of the Romanian wilderness, they ventured deep into dense forests and remote valleys, where the first natural obstacles put their skills, concentration, and teamwork to the test. From steep climbs and muddy passages to rocky tracks carved by time, every section of the course challenged their ability to adapt and pushed them beyond their comfort zones. It was more than just a drive—it was an intense day of pure adventure, where every kilometer brought with it a new thrill, unexpected discoveries, and unforgettable views. Along the way, the teams forged stronger bonds, shared the excitement of overcoming each challenge, and laid the foundation for what promises to be a truly extraordinary off-road experience in the days to come.
As the teams crossed the finish line, it was clear that the race was tightening, and the stakes were higher than ever. This stage had proven that in The Rock Trophy, only those who can master the art of balance—between speed, skill, and navigation—would be able to claim victory in the days to come.
The Top 3 in Every Class: A Spotlight on the Leading Competitors
Another day unfolds deep in the wild, untamed heart of Romania, where the competition intensifies and the challenges grow even more formidable. As teams push themselves to the limit in their quest for victory, the race enters another round of high-stakes action, each stage an unforgiving test of both skill and resilience.
The rugged terrain offers no mercy, demanding unwavering determination as competitors navigate through its harsh landscape. The stakes are high, the challenges relentless, and every twist and turn in the course brings a new opportunity to prove strength, strategy, and perseverance.
Yet, even amid the unyielding intensity of the race, something remains constant—the essence of true sportsmanship. Despite the fierce battle for the top spots, respect for fellow competitors, camaraderie, and fair play shine through. It's these values that continue to define the spirit of this extraordinary adventure, reminding everyone that while the race may be fierce, the heart of the event beats with mutual respect and integrity.
In the Extreme class, the battle is becoming increasingly intense, with the top three teams constantly trading places each day. Today, Hardo Mere and Marius Pop (EST-ROU), behind the wheel of their HM Proto, claimed first place with a time of 03:55:22.47. Yesterday’s third-place finishers, Remigiusz Wutkowski and Piotr Kujawski from Poland, moved up to second, while Ints Freibergs and Ints Marcinkevics now hold third position. With such tight competition, the coming days promise even fiercer duels.
In the Challenger class, Romania continues to dominate, though with the top positions swapped compared to yesterday. Ionel Stan and Bogdan Pascu took the lead today, clocking a time of 02:59:56.70. Nicolae Burada and Traian Maracineanu followed in second, while the French duo Rodolphe Wetzler and Romain Hedin secured third. The race for the top is still wide open in the Challenger class, and there’s no doubt more surprises await.
In the Legend class, the Estonians Urvo Mannama and Kaarel Gross once again claimed the stage win, finishing in 02:30:22.59. The Latvians Vilnis Zitans and Raivis Aizups came in second, while third place went to the Germans Peter Lippert and Joerg Karpa, driving their spectacular Steyr Daimler Puch 712 Fal.
Tomorrow marks the halfway point of the race—a crucial day featuring both the Circle Race and the Night Stage. With such demanding challenges ahead, the overall standings remain wide open, and anything can still happen.
What’s Coming Next at The Rock Trophy
Wednesday, April 9 – Double Challenge: The Ultimate Showdown
- Circle Race – Poienile Beriului:
Extreme KM: 22
Challenger KM: 23
The morning starts with a spectacle of speed and control in a thrilling multi-lap showdown. This circuit demands both raw power and technical mastery, as competitors battle side by side, pushing their vehicles to the absolute limit. Spectators will witness intense wheel-to-wheel action, where every second counts. The atmosphere will be electric, with food vendors and entertainment ensuring an unforgettable experience for fans.
In the morning, while the other two competition classes get ready to battle it out on the Circle Race circuit, the Legend teams take on a different kind of challenge. They still have the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Romanian forests, following a dedicated route that leads them from the remote Costești camp back to Geoagiu Bai. For them, it’s another day defined by exploration and adventure, fully immersed in the wild. But the day doesn’t end there—once they return to the bivouac, just a few hours of rest await before they rejoin the rest of the competitors for the highly anticipated Night Stage.
- Night Stage – Geoagiu Bai:
Extreme KM: 24
Challenger KM: 24
Legend KM: 23
As darkness falls, a whole new challenge begins. The Night Stage is a battle against the unknown, where visibility is minimal, and instincts take center stage. Navigation becomes exponentially harder, with only the glow of headlights and the flicker of the IRIS system guiding the way. Only the most composed and adaptable will emerge unscathed—this is where legends are made.
Source: Rock Trophy 2025 / RBI
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