John Purshouse in a Ford Ranger has grabbed the lead on the opening leg of the Australasian Safari in outback Western Australia.

Competitors tackled some spectacular station land where they experienced river crossings, ruts, red dirt, and dust storms. It was a tough, tiring day for most competitors, with flat tyres and electrical issues the reoccurring theme throughout the bivouac.

In the Auto category it came down to a tightly fought battle between Purshouse and Dave McShane with 43 second separating the leading duo. Purshouse found the terrain tough, but with some very nice flowing rally roads which suited the Ford Ranger.

“The car felt good. It’s easy to drive and quite forgiving. The speed of the car can sometimes take you by surprise, it is very quick,” said Purshouse.

“We’ll be first auto on stage tomorrow – opening the course, which is always interesting. I’m hoping the motorcycles leave enough marks on the track for us to follow.”

McShane also found the course fast in places, but was unable to enjoy those sections due to an electrical fault in the Toyota Tacoma.

In the Moto category Rodney Faggotter made it clear to everyone that he was intending on not giving up his Safari Champion title easily. With the Yamaha Factory Team rider posting the fastest time on each stage.

Team mate Shane Diener said he was getting more comfortable the more he rode the bike.

“Rod has done a lot of desert riding already this year and I have only done Condo, so it felt great to have such a close result. I had no hassles and managed to stay out of trouble,” said Diene.

It was deja vu to last year in the Quad category, with the battle for top spot being fought out by Heath Young. The West Australian gained top time, despite having a couple of flat tyres.

Garry Connell in the Artic Wildkat X was leader of the Side-by-Side category, until a penalty moved him to fifth position, allowing Robert Williams to slide up to top spot.

Tomorrow the event moves to Gascoyne Junction for Leg 2. It will be a marathon day for competitors, with one stage 256 kilometres long. Preservation will be key.

VIDEO: Leg 1 wrap