Independent Media are the defending champions of the Fortuner Challenge and in fact, have won the gruelling competition two years in succession.
We’re looking for someone to continue that momentum for the Fortuner Challenge 2026 powered by Quartz Engine Oil.
But before you think you have what it takes, here are last year’s winner Hennie Terreblanche’s thoughts after two days of extreme competition.
“I’ve taken part in many events, but the stakes had never been this high—winning a Toyota Fortuner adds a whole new level of pressure. My daily CrossFit, running, and biking prepared me physically, while my engineering background helped with technical tasks like solving puzzles and using our Garmin watches for navigation.
“But maintaining composure with such a life-changing prize on the line was the real challenge.
“The challenge was well-organized, with exciting and demanding events that pushed us to our limits. Being surrounded by such an amazing group - fellow challengers, sporting heroes, and organizers - made the experience even more special.”
Some of his highlights included;
Sprinting along the beach and diving into the ocean to rescue a drowning person was intense and exhilarating in the Lifeguard Challenge.
Navigating the golf course at night was both physically and mentally demanding using Morse code to find our final coordinate to secure the win in the Golf Course Escape.
Precise execution in the 4x4 Challenge was crucial. Driving the Fortuner through the sand at high speed was an unforgettable thrill.
A fast-paced bike sprint through rugged terrain tested our endurance and navigation skills in the Specialized MTB Challenge.
Our teamwork shone in the Arena Obstacle Course. My speed on the obstacles paired with Saood Variawa’s precision in solving the ball-shoot puzzle made us a formidable duo.
From building a raft to solving a complex puzzle under fatigue, the final challenge was a true test of resilience.
Now you have an idea of what to expect and if you have what it takes you stand to win not only a brand-new Toyota Fortuner, valued at approximately R740,000, but also a substantial list of lifestyle and adventure gear, among them:
How to enter
To be eligible, entrants must hold a valid South African driver’s licence and be available to participate on the official Fortuner Challenge 2026 dates, from 20 to 22 April 2026.
Applications are now open, and Independent Media readers can enter via the dedicated portal. From there, shortlisted candidates will go through a selection process, with one ultimately chosen to represent Independent Media as a finalist in the 2026 challenge.
If you think you’ve got the fitness, focus and resilience to see it through, you can enter at:https://www.fortunerchallenge.co.za/independent-media
T’s & C’s apply.