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LinkedIn Aleksander “Fazi” Szandrowski is a well-known figure in the world of off-road racing. A constructor and builder of rally cars, he is a two-time Polish vice-champion and European vice-champion in the TH class. Not only does he create his own machines, but he also successfully uses them in the toughest off-road competitions. We had the opportunity to talk with Aleksander about his passion and challenges. He also shared valuable advice and the reasons why Fazi chooses MITKO tents.
Where did your passion for off-road come from and how long have you been developing it?
Since I was a child, I have liked off-road vehicles. I dreamed of driving on forest roads and overcoming various obstacles. My first off-road vehicle was a UAZ, which I renovated and drove daily, of course off the beaten path.
How did you get started? What was your first vehicle used for off-roading?
It was indeed the UAZ; that’s what I took to my first amateur rally in 1998.
What does off-road mean to you in three words?
Passion, work, relaxation.
How many rally cars have you wrecked throughout your off-road adventure?
I haven’t totaled any. There have been three rollovers, but none resulted in the car being totaled.
Have you ever been afraid for your life during races?
No, I haven’t been afraid. I always try to drive cautiously. Every accident means not finishing the race and rebuilding the rally car, and I don’t even want to think about my own injury… I feel safe in the rally car.
What rally car are you currently using? What are its specifications?
It’s a SAM rally car, built by my team in my workshop. It has a BMW 3.0D engine, a rally version with a dry sump. 300 HP, an 8-speed transmission, suspension with FOX 2.5 coil-over shocks, and a bypass with 2 shocks for each wheel.
I saw that you got your son involved in the world of off-road. Can you tell us about that?
My son has always had an off-road toy. After all, children take after their parents and want to be like them in the future! I encouraged my son to assemble his first off-road vehicle. While we were building the car together, he learned mechanics, welding, and developed a love for this type of vehicle. Later, I suggested he participate in cross-country rallies as a co-driver.
How many tickets have you received during daily driving? 😅
In today’s climate of hunting for drivers, I try to drive calmly and carefully, not standing out. I practically have no tickets. Sometimes it happens, but it’s for minor infractions. As of now, I have 4 points and have paid 400 PLN in fines over the past few years.
Which title/cup are you most proud of?
My greatest achievement is the title of European Vice-Champion for drivers, for which I received a trophy.
Warning, this will be controversial… How do you see the future of off-road in the age of electric vehicles?
There is no place for such inventions. Even manufacturers with multi-million budgets struggle in this area. Electric vehicles haven’t conquered anything on the roads yet, so they are far from off-road.
What should everyone participating in off-road competitions have with them?
Anyone preparing for off-road competitions should have a ready rally car, a service team, a relaxation area, a kitchen (let’s say a field kitchen), and a rally camp (usually located in the field), whether it’s a training ground. We are dependent on ourselves here and must be prepared to survive in such a place for several days, so it is essential to have service tents, kitchen tents, or relaxation tents. Rain or strong sunlight does not make survival in field conditions easier, but MITKO products come to our aid. Tents under which you can always hide, comfortable poufs, and loungers where we love to relax.
What one, most important piece of advice would you give to everyone in the off-road and automotive world?
Chase your dreams, fulfill them, and enjoy life!
How does the MITKO tent help you on a daily basis?
I use the tent and all MITKO equipment during competitions and training. They are of really high quality, with well-thought-out solutions, easy to set up, pack, and very durable. Thank you, Aleksander, for the interview. Wishing you continued success on your professional path and racing trail!
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