Riaan Fourie has been awarded the coveted and prestigious title ‘Safari Guide of the Year 2019’ after a tough week of scrutiny from mentors and intense but convivial competition amongst the five chosen finalists.
VIDEO: The winner is revealed
This prestigious title is awarded every year by the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA), and represents a serious feather in the cap and career highlight for the winner.
The judges include some of the region’s most experienced and respected guides: James Steyn, Juan Pinto, Brian Serrao, Quinton Coetzee and Mike Karantonis.
The week of judging was held at the NJ MORE Field Guide College, in the Marataba section of the greater Marakele National Park, and the contestants were put through their paces by the judges during guided walks and game drives where they were tested on track and sign identification, bird identification, rifle handling and shooting and their storytelling skills.
The event was broadcast live by WildEarth TV, and here are some of their short video clips:
1. Bird identification
2. Shooting
3. Tracks and signs
4. Game drive and bushwalk
5. Storytelling
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