KARTING | TGRJA Aims to Regain Form as Regional Heads to Vereeniging
The Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy (TGRJA) will head to Vereeniging Kart Circuit this weekend for Round 2 of the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championship. Six drivers will again represent the academy across four Rotax classes as they compete in the Gauteng-based regional karting competition.
The academy's most junior driver, Tshepang Shisinwana, a multiple national champion, will again compete in the fiercely competitive Mini MAX class. Having already secured a podium finish, Tshepang is determined to regain his championship bid following his impressive fourth-place finish at the season opener in February.
In the Junior MAX class, Reagile Mailula and Emma-Rose Dowling are determined to improve their positions in the championship standings after a challenging start at Zwartkops Kart Raceway. Despite Reagile, a former national champion, securing a podium heat finish, the duo faced a tough initiation to their season.
The reigning National and Northern Regions Junior MAX Champion Kent Swartz has had a solid start to his season. Since moving up in class, Kent has shown a strong pace and, despite not having won a heat, walked away with a double podium and the overall victory in Round 1. He'll no doubt be looking to remain on top and claim that first win of the season.
In DD2, rookie driver Karabo Malemela leads the academy's charge among a talented group of drivers. So far, he has achieved a best finish of fourth and came fifth overall in the season opener. However, Karabo and teammate Jason Coetzee must work hard to regain some points in the championship. During the first round's opening heat, Jason had a tough time, which affected his overall results despite finishing fourth and third in the two final heats.
The excitement kicks off on Saturday with a Warm-Up Session ahead of Qualifying, followed by three race heats to conclude the day's action. We extend a warm welcome to all spectators, with entry being free of charge. Join us and be a part of this exhilarating racing experience.
KARTING | Bezuidenhout Up for Senior MAX Challenge
Fresh from the weekend's impressive Investchem Formula 1600 outing at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, Mikel Bezuidenhout returns to Rotax karting as the second round of the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championship resumes at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit.
The week before, Mikel also competed at the opening Northern Regions ROK Kart Championships in the OK-N class at Vereeniging, where he claimed his maiden pole position. With his recent form at the circuit, the teenager will be eager to carry that momentum into the weekend.
It all gets underway on Saturday with a Warm-Up Session ahead of Qualifying before three race heats conclude the day's action. Spectators are welcome with entry free of charge.
Mikel thanks the support of MTN Cosmo-Net, NBR Racing and Vivo Mobile South Africa.
KARTING | De Oliveira Ready to Challenge Vereeniging Bambino Field
Bambino racing returns this weekend with the region's youngest karting competitors out at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit for Round 2 of the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championship.
After his impressive triple podium, including a win in the opening round at Zwartkops Kart Raceway, the young and talented Alonzo De Oliveira is back in action. This time, he's ready to challenge for regional karting honours against the equally promising class of 2024, including fellow 2023 rookie Sebastian Shuttleworth.
This weekend also counts towards the South African Rotax Max Challenge (SARMC) national championship, so it is crucial for drivers to perform well. With its flat and twisting layout, the Vereeniging track presents an actual test of speed where cornering is essential for a fast lap.
It all gets underway on Saturday with a Warm-Up Session ahead of Qualifying before three race heats conclude the day's action. Spectators are welcome with entry free of charge.
Alonzo thanks Y2K Germiston, NBR Racing, MSLB Projects, Motorsport Fanatix, Karting-It All Starts Here, S.Y. Wholesale Butchery and Amigos Portugueses.
KARTING | Steyn Looking to Consolidate Strong Start to Rookie Season
This weekend, the Vereeniging Kart Circuit will be the battleground for the second round of the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championships. Watch for Adriaan Steyn, a force to be reckoned with among the ten Micro MAX competitors entered. As the 2023 National and Northern Regions Bambino Champion, he's ready to take on the challenge and show his mettle.
Steyn hopes to continue his strong form this season, which saw him claim a runner-up spot and a third at the opening round at Zwartkops Kart Raceway. Also noteworthy is that, like the opening round, Round 2 will also be points-scoring towards the South African Rotax Max Challenge (SARMC), the national championship.
Saturday commences with a Warm-Up Session ahead of Qualifying before three race heats conclude the day's action. Spectators are welcome with entry free of charge.
Adriaan thanks Q4 Fuel, Greensky, Parolin Racing South Africa, Sparco and Motorsport Fanatix.
KARTING | Rookie De Wet Set to Tackle Second Round of Rotax Regional Championship
Round 2 of the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championships is set to take place on 20 April at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit in Vereeniging. Among the talented racers to watch out for is Micro MAX rookie Luhan de Wet, who is no stranger to the winner's circle, having claimed the 2023 National Cadet Championship.
As the second round of the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championships approaches, the stakes are high. This round is about crowning a Northern Regions Champion and a crucial scoring round towards the South African Rotax Max Challenge (SARMC), the pinnacle of kart racing in the nation. With an impressive track record this season, Luhan is poised to give the competition a run for their money.
Saturday commences with a Warm-Up Session ahead of Qualifying before three race heats conclude the day's action. Spectators are welcome, and entry is free of charge. A cafeteria and a fully licensed bar are available.
For more on Luhan's journey, please follow his social media handles at:
https://www.facebook.com/luhandewet27/
https://www.instagram.com/luhandewet27/
Luhan thanks De Wet Auto Service & Repair, Alunite Pretoria, Motorsport Fanatix and his team at WORR Motorsport.
FORMULA 1600 | Circuit Racing Rookie Bezuidenhout Shines at Kyalami
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg witnessed an electrifying display of talent over the weekend as the second round of the Investchem Formula 1600 Championship unfolded. Among the standout performers was rookie Mikel Bezuidenhout, who is still in his second season of racing when one includes his karting season.
Heading into Round 2 of South Africa's premier single-seater championship, Mikel carried the weight of expectation following his debut success in Cape Town. Armed with only his karting experience, Mikel showcased an innate ability for motorsport that belied his relative newcomer status.
Throughout the weekend, Mikel's progress was nothing short of remarkable. With each session, he honed his skills and pushed the limits of his Huawei Mobile-sponsored Formula 1600 machine, leaving no stone unturned in his quest for success. Despite the challenging nature of the Kyalami circuit, Mikel's adaptability and determination to excel were on full display, further enhancing his performance.
In qualifying, Mikel continued to impress, improving with each lap to secure a solid 12th place on the grid, a testament to his growing confidence and skill behind the wheel. As the lights went out for the opening race, Mikel patiently and calmly stuck to his lines to cross the finish line in a remarkable 10th place.
However, in the weekend's final race, Mikel truly showcased his potential. With nerves of steel and a hunger for success, he battled fiercely against his competitors, showcasing his racecraft. As the chequered flag waved, Mikel crossed the finish line in a phenomenal fifth place, a stunning achievement that underscored his potential. With his impressive performances throughout the weekend, Mikel secured an 8th-place overall finish.
Mikel returns for Round 3 of the championship on 17-18 May at Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria.
FORMULA 1600 | KC Ensor-Smith Secures Kyalami Lap Record and Double Podium
Amidst the roar of engines and the pulsating atmosphere of the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg, the Investchem Formula 1600 Championship delivered another thrilling round during the National Extreme Festival weekend. For KC Ensor-Smith, who loves speed, this was an opportunity to continue his strong transition from karting to circuit racing and assert himself as one of South Africa's young motorsport prospects.
Entering Round 2 with confidence buoyed by his podium finish earlier in the season, Ensor-Smith wasted no time in making his presence felt. Qualifying on Friday saw him secure a solid starting position, slotting into second place on the grid and setting the stage for what would be an electrifying weekend of racing.
Ensor-Smith immediately affirmed himself among the frontrunners as the lights went out for the opening race. Despite facing fierce competition and losing a position after the start, he demonstrated his talent, crossing the finish line in third place to claim another podium.
Undeterred by the challenges of the first race, Ensor-Smith returned with renewed focus for the second race. Determined to leave his mark, he unleashed his full potential, navigating the twists and turns of the Kyalami circuit with precision and finesse. In a display of sheer grit and aptitude, he crossed the finish line in second place, securing his third podium of the season and solidifying his position as a rising star in motorsport. In doing so he also set the quickest ever lap in a Formula 1600 around Kyalami.
When the dust settled and the final results were tallied, Ensor-Smith stood elevated on the podium again, this time as the overall second-place finisher at Kyalami. The Witbank teenager extended his thanks to the crowds in attendance, as well as to the event organisers, officials, and circuit staff. KC is backed by African Heating, Vitro Frameless, Master Stairs and Sparco.
Round 3 of the championship will resume at Zwartkops Raceway on 17-18 May.
EXTREME SUPERCARS: Neveling Bounces Back After Kyalami Qualifying Setback
Arnold Neveling was a standout performer at Round 3 of the Extreme Supercars Driven by Dunlop Championship, which took place at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. He drove the impressive Bobcat-One Tough Animal-liveried Audi R8 GT3 LMS EVO, sponsored by Goscor Lift Company, and put on a superb display of driving throughout the weekend's races.
Despite his undeniable talent, Neveling faced an unexpected challenge during qualifying. An electrical issue in his Audi R8 GT3 LMS EVO hindered his performance, resulting in a 15th-place overall qualification and a fourth-place ranking in the GT3 class. However, Neveling's resilience shone through as he refused to let this setback define his race weekend.
Undeterred by the setback, Neveling stormed into action on race day. With a tenacious spirit and unwavering focus, he swiftly manoeuvred through the field, steadily making his way towards the front of the pack. Neveling's skill was on full display as he navigated the challenging twists and turns of the Johannesburg circuit. Despite the intense competition, he performed exceptionally in both races, claiming runner-up finishes to secure an impressive second overall in the GT3 class.
After the races, Neveling expressed his gratitude to the promoters, organizers, circuit staff, and officials for their efforts to organise and execute a phenomenal event. He commended their dedication and professionalism and labelled the weekend as one of the best events he had attended recently.
Round 4 of the championship will continue on 17-18 May 2024 at Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria.
V8 SUPERCARS | Fameliaris Continues Kyalami Winning Streak
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit witnessed a spectacle of speed and thunderous noise as the Mobil 1 V8 Supercars Championship roared into action over the weekend as part of the Extreme Festival. Among the contenders, reigning champion Julian Fameliaris once again proved his mettle, clinching the overall victory in an exhilarating display of racing.
Fameliaris, who entered the weekend's second round trailing championship rival Thomas Reib by a mere point, was determined to assert himself and take the championship lead. From the moment the green flag waved, Fameliaris showcased his trademark blend of precision driving and strategic prowess, setting the stage for a gripping battle for the top spot.
As the races unfolded over the weekend, Fameliaris was locked in a fierce rivalry with Reib. Both drivers were pushing the limits of their V8 machines in pursuit of victory. In a testament to their resolve, Fameliaris and Reib traded blows, each claiming a win and solidifying their positions at the forefront of the championship standings.
Despite the intense competition, Fameliaris remained determined, relying on his experience and steady composure to navigate the twists and turns of the iconic Johannesburg circuit. With his team's unwavering support and the crowd's enthusiastic cheers, Fameliaris surged ahead, crossing the Race 2 finish line in a triumphant display of his unyielding determination and adding another win to his 2024 season record.
Fameliaris's victory at Kyalami was not just another win, but a significant milestone in his career. It further solidified his status as one of the sport's most formidable competitors, a true champion who consistently delivers under pressure and performs at the highest level. As the Mobil 1 V8 Supercars Championship continues its compelling journey, all eyes remain on Julian Fameliaris, who is setting his sights on another championship.
Round 3 of the championship will continue on 11 May 2024 at Red Star Raceway near Delmas.
POLO CUP | Robinson Shows Grit and Determination at Fierce Kyalami Round
The Astron Energy Polo Cup Championship roared into action at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg, delivering a spectacle of speed, skill, and fierce competition. Among the contenders, Tyler Robinson stood out not only as the sole female competitor but also as a symbol of perseverance and determination.
Entering her second visit to the historic circuit, Robinson, representing AF Fans, faced formidable competition in a field of 20 cars. Qualifying on Friday saw her secure the seventh position, setting the stage for an intense weekend of racing.
Saturday's opening race proved to be challenging, with Robinson battling hard against her rivals. Despite the competition, she maintained her composure and crossed the finish line in seventh place, showcasing her tenacity and skill behind the wheel.
Race 2 presented its unique challenges for Robinson to conquer. A brief excursion onto the grass tested her resolve, but she refused to be discouraged. She fought her way back onto the track with unwavering focus, showcasing her admirable driving prowess. In a display of sheer grit, Robinson powered through the race, ultimately crossing the line in eighth place. Her impressive performance secured her seventh place overall, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the challenges she overcame.
Acknowledging the support of her team at Universal Racing and her sponsors, Robinson expressed gratitude to all who stood by her side throughout the weekend. Their unwavering support served as a source of motivation, driving her to push beyond her limits and achieve success on the track. She fearlessly defies any expectations and demonstrates that success in motorsport is not defined by gender.
Round 3 of the championship will continue on 17-18 May at Zwartkops Raceway.
V8 SUPERCARS | Champion Fameliaris Aims to Replicate 2023 Kyalami Success
As the 2024 Mobil 1 V8 Supercars Championship gathers momentum, all eyes are on defending champion Julian Fameliaris as he gears up for Round 2 of the "Rolling Thunder". An action-packed weekend is set to unfold at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, where Fameliaris will take centre stage in his Chevrolet Corvette as part of the double-header Extreme Festival from April 11 to 13.
Fameliaris enters Round 2 trailing by a point behind rival Thomas Reib, setting the stage for an intense Highveld showdown. The opening round saw both drivers share the limelight with victories, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive season ahead. Fameliaris has a successful history at the Johannesburg circuit, earning wins in both rounds during the 2023 season. His commanding performances solidified his status as a top performer, and he will undoubtedly aim to replicate that success this weekend to retain his crown.
Anticipation is running high as fans eagerly await the spectacle of V8 racing, with a large crowd expected to descend upon the circuit. It all starts with a practice session on Thursday, followed by a busy Friday with a practice and qualifying session ahead of the first race (16:20). Race 2 is scheduled for Saturday at 13:55.
The entry fee is R200 per person; children under 12 enter free. Various food stalls and a beer garden will be available, as well as drifting passenger rides and loads of children's activities.
Tickets can be purchased online at Computicket on the link below:
https://computicket-boxoffice.com/e/extreme-festival-Yo2OgW
For more information, please visit https://aglubricants.co.za/
For all news related to the Mobil 1 V8 Supercars Championship, please visit https://v8supercars.co.za/
FORMULA 1600 | Rookie Bezuidenhout Ready to Impress at Kyalami
As the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit prepares to host the second round of the National Extreme Festival and, with it, the Investchem Formula 1600 Championship, 2024 rookie Mikel Bezuidenhout is out to astonish. With this weekend's event setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating event, Mikel is poised to make an impression on South Africa's premier single-seater championship.
Mikel's journey to the Investchem Formula 1600 circuit is one of determination. Despite only being in his second full season of competitive racing, Mikel has already showcased his potential, transitioning seamlessly from karting to the high-stakes world of formula racing.
While Mikel earned a championship point on debut in Cape Town, he is eager to add to his points tally this weekend, ready to build upon that success and solidify his presence on the grid. The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, with its rich history and challenging layout, poses a formidable test for drivers. Known for its fast straight, sweeping corners and elevation changes, it demands precision and courage from those who dare to conquer it. For Mikel, this presents both an opportunity and a challenge he is more than prepared to meet head-on.
It starts with a practice session on Thursday, followed by a second practice session and qualifying on Friday. Two races are scheduled for Saturday, the first at 07:30 and the second at 12:25. The entry fee is R200 per person; children under 12 enter free. Various food stalls and a beer garden will be available, as well as drifting passenger rides and loads of children's activities.
MTN Cosmo-Net and Huawei South Africa back Mikel.
Tickets can be purchased online at Computicket on the link below:
FORMULA 1600 | Ensor-Smith Looking to Capitalise on Solid Start to Season
As the Investchem Formula 1600 Championship gears up for its round at the renowned Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg, all eyes are on the promising talent KC Ensor-Smith. The circuit, playing host to Round 2 of the National Extreme Festival, promises an adrenaline-fueled weekend of motorsport action, with the Extreme Festival's regional tour adding to the excitement.
KC enters Round 2 following an impressive start to his 2024 campaign, showcasing the skills that made him a multiple national karting champion. The young driver's performance in Cape Town's opening round saw him clinch his first podium of the season, setting the stage for what could be a breakthrough year. Remarkably, KC finds himself just two points shy of the championship leaders, indicating his early contention for the title.
Hailing from Witbank, the teenager brings a hunger for success and a determination to excel on one of South Africa's most iconic race circuits. Kyalami holds special significance for KC, where he made his Formula 1600 debut in 2023.
The Investchem Formula 1600 class promises to be a spectacle, with seasoned veterans and emerging talents vying for supremacy. For KC, it's an opportunity to further establish himself as a championship contender.
It all starts with a practice session on Thursday, followed by a second practice session and qualifying on Friday. Two races are scheduled for Saturday, the first at 07:30 and the second at 12:25. The entry fee is R200 per person; children under 12 enter free. Various food stalls and a beer garden will be available, as well as drifting passenger rides and loads of children's activities.
KC is backed by African Heating, Vitro Frameless, Master Stairs and Sparco.
Tickets can be purchased online at Computicket on the link below:
POLO CUP | Robinson Eyes Redemption at Kyalami Extreme Fest
As the National Extreme Festival gears up for Round 2, all eyes are on Tyler Robinson, the determined driver set to bounce back at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg. With a mix of anticipation and determination, Tyler is poised to leave her mark on the track after a disappointing outing in Round 1.
Returning to Kyalami for her second visit, Tyler seeks redemption following a challenging start to the season. The memories of her weekend-ending accident in Cape Town during Round 1 fuel her determination.
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, known for its challenging layout and rich history, presents the perfect stage for her to showcase her skills, which she has perfected from a young age through karting. With its combination of high-speed straights and technical corners, the circuit demands precision and nerve, qualities Tyler possesses in abundance.
Despite the setback in the previous round, she remains undeterred. Her resilience and commitment to greatness have earned her respect within the racing community. With each lap, she inches closer to her goal of podium glory, drawing inspiration from past triumphs and setbacks alike.
As the countdown to race day begins, Tyler and her team are hard at work fine-tuning every aspect of her performance. From mechanical adjustments to mental preparation, no detail is overlooked in their pursuit of victory.
It starts with a practice session on Thursday, followed by a second practice session and qualifying on Friday. Two races are scheduled for Saturday, the first at 09:05 and the second at 14:25. The entry fee is R200 per person; children under 12 enter free. Various food stalls and a beer garden will be available, as well as drifting passenger rides and loads of children's activities.
Tyler thanks AF Fans, Freem, RKT Motorsport and Apex Gaming.
Tickets can be purchased online at Computicket on the link below:
EXTREME SUPERCARS | Experienced Neveling to Tackle Kyalami Extreme Festival
Arnold Neveling is heading to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit this week for Round 3 of the Extreme Supercars - Driven by Dunlop. The Johannesburg circuit is one of the most highly anticipated rounds for many drivers on the motorsport calendar. It will host Round 2 of the National Extreme Festival, including its regional tour, making it a true and highly anticipated motorsport extravaganza.
Although it's the first time the championship heads to the iconic circuit this season, Neveling has previous experience. He has competed in many categories over the years, including the Kyalami 9-Hour. In 2023, he finished 4th in the Intercontinental GT Kyalami 9-Hour PRO-AM class, scoring manufacturer points for the Mercedes-AMG. Furthermore, the Stradale Motorsport driver is backed by GOSCOR Lift Trucks and will again be putting the Bobcat-One Tough Animal-liveried Audi R8 LMS GT3 through its paces. After two rounds Neveling is second on the overall championship points table and will be one of the drivers to watch this weekend.
It all kicks off on Thursday with a single practice session before a second practice precedes the Qualifying on Friday. Two races are scheduled for Saturday, at 11:15 and 15:25, respectively. The entry fee is R200 per person; children under 12 enter free. Various food stalls and a beer garden will be available, as well as drifting passenger rides and loads of children's activities.
Tickets can be purchased online at Computicket on the link below:
KARTING | Bezuidenhout Misses Out at Bizarre Vereeniging Regional Opener
The opening round of the Northern Regions ROK Karting Championship got underway at a wet Vereeniging this weekend. OKN driver Mikel Bezuidenhout claimed fourth overall, including his maiden pole position. While lightning and thunder delayed proceedings, the event continued before the bad weather returned, and officials called an end to proceedings over safety concerns.
Only two of the eight competitors finished the race in a bizarre opening heat following a torrential downpour. Despite starting from the pole, Mikel was beaten off the line by a competitor who was eventually penalised for a jump start. Unfortunately, in the position scuffle, the pair lost control of their karts before running off the circuit. Able to rejoin, Mikel would be involved in another incident that forced his retirement from the race.
For Heat 2, Mikel started eighth and worked his way through the pack to finish in a strong second before receiving a nose-cone infringement penalty, demoting him to third. The final heat started with Mikel in pole position and was red-flagged before officials called force majeure due to lightning threatening the safety of participants and spectators.
"It was a good day out. Claiming my first pole position was fantastic, and I was hoping to convert that into a win today, but unfortunately, it wasn't meant to be. Again, we showed great pace in Heat 2 but came up short. The final heat was the perfect time to redeem myself, but again, the odds were against me. But for everyone's safety, I believe it was the right call. Hopefully, we can return with a few tricks up our sleeve for the national," said Mikel.
Mikel will now prepare for this weekend's Extreme Festival, where he will compete in Round 2 of the Investchem Formula 1600 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. Mikel thanks MTN Cosmo-Net, Vivo Mobile South Africa and the team at NBR Racing.
KARTING | Cornofsky Remains Upbeat After Trying Mini ROK Opener
2023 National Kid ROK Champion Kayde Cornofsky endured a challenging Northern Regions ROK Karting Championship round at a somewhat wet Vereeniging this weekend. While the young Johannesburg driver showed impressive pace throughout the weekend, the results did not reflect his performance on the day.
Following Friday's open practice, where Kayde focused on fine-tuning his setup, he would qualify 10th on Saturday morning. Unfortunately, Kayde was deemed in breach of a regulation before qualifying, which excluded him from the session and the opening heat result. In addition, he was forced to start Heat 2 from the back of the grid. With no chance of challenging for the day's podium, he focused on preparing for the upcoming national round set at the same venue a few weeks later.
From last on the grid, Kayde battled through the field to finish in an inspiring seventh in Heat 2. Focused on another good result, the Xtreme Racing Team driver started the final heat from fourth, hoping to finish on the podium and end his weekend on a high. Unfortunately, his poor luck continued as he was involved in an incident that forced his retirement after only six laps.
"It's a day I'd rather forget," said Kayde. “Today was a disaster, with almost everything going wrong. While the penalty was not entirely my fault, we had to take it on the chin and focus on the rest of the day. If anything, we showed some good pace in challenging conditions, which we will focus on and improve on ahead of the national. Thank you to the team and everyone for their support. We will bounce back and make up for today's disappointment. You can count on that."
Kayde will return to the circuit on 17-18 May for Round 2 of the National ROK Cup Karting Championship at Vereeniging. Kayde thanks Canario Cornofsky Attorneys, Calisto's Restaurant, Allegiance Properties, Smith Garage, the 357 and the Xtreme Racing Team.
KARTING | Antunes Records Best-Ever Mini ROK Result
TrevPar World-backed Mini ROK driver Diego Antunes walked away with an overall podium result (third) at the Northern Regions ROK Karting Championship opening round at a wet Vereeniging this weekend. Not only did the Johannesburg-based driver overcome the elements, but he also beat out the majority of drivers that made up a big 22-kart grid.
Qualifying in sixth on Saturday morning, the former regional Bambino champion headed to his best-ever result (second) since starting out in the Mini ROK class in mid-2023. Following his podium result, Diego put in another strong performance in Heat 2 to finish just off the podium in fourth. In a somewhat more challenging final heat, Diego finished sixth to cap off a strong round and claim third overall.
"I'm very pleased with my results today. I woke up this morning thinking I could win, and while I missed the top step of the podium, it still felt like a victory. This class is tough, and to race with these guys in the wet and finish on the podium is very rewarding. We also did well in the other heats, so we are very happy. I must also thank my team at NBR Racing and to everyone for their support," said Diego.
Diego will return to the circuit on 17-18 May for Round 2 of the National ROK Cup Karting Championship at Vereeniging.
KARTING | Rookie De Wet Claims Remarkable Top-8 Mini ROK Finish
Luhan De Wet competed in the Northern Regions ROK Karting Championship’s opening round at a wet Vereeniging this weekend. On top of the challenging weather conditions, the 2023 National Cadet Champion also had to try and prevail over a large grid (22) of Mini ROK drivers.
Having competed in Bambinos and Cadets in 2023, the Loius Leipodlt student from Centurion moved up in class for 2024, primarily focused on the Micro MAX championship. This weekend, however, Luhan decided to take on the challenge of what is seen as the most demanding karting class in South Africa.
Despite some inclement weather on Friday, the WORR Motorsport driver put in some good laps as the team fine-tuned his setup ahead of Saturday's qualifying. Not able to extract the best out of the kart, Luhan qualified down in 17th. After a major thunderstorm, the circuit was wet for the opening heat. Unperturbed by the conditions, Luhan put in a solid performance to finish tenth, something he repeated in the second heat. The final heat would, however, see Luhan drop back to take the chequered flag in 14th. After the results were combined, Luhan was awarded the eighth overall place on the day, which was an impressive performance.
Luhan will return to the circuit on 20 April for Round 2 of the Northern Regions Rotax Karting Championship at Vereeniging. De Wet thanks De Wet Auto Service & Repair, Alunite Pretoria, Motorsport Fanatix and his team at WORR Motorsport.
KARTING | Bezuidenhout Hoping to Capitalise on Strong 2024 Start
Mikel Bezuidenhout will participate in his sixth karting and seventh motorsport event of the season when he takes to the Vereeniging Kart Circuit this weekend. The young Johannesburg student is in his second full season of racing and is also a rookie in the Investchem Formula 1600 Championship.
Competing in the Rotax and Vortex-powered two-stroke karting championships at the national and regional levels, Mikel will kick off his Northern Regions ROK Karting Championship campaign this weekend in the OK-N Class. In 2023, Mikel finished second in the regional points standings and fourth in the national championship and will be hoping to improve on those statistics following a solid start to 2024 when he finished as runner-up at the opening national round in Cape Town a few weeks ago.
The regional championship will again be contested over six rounds, with drivers competing at circuits that include the Formula-K Raceway in Benoni, the Vereeniging Kart Circuit in Vereeniging, and, still to be finalised, a circuit at Red Star Raceway just outside Delmas in the Mpumalanga Province. Championship winners will be crowned at the season's end and eligible for regional colours.
The Vereeniging Kart Circuit is one of the oldest and is also utilised as a short motorcycle circuit. It is situated in Vereeniging, just off the R59, and offers spectators a complete view of the circuit from almost anywhere. It hosts club, regional, and national events. Rental karts are also available for corporate/private functions.
Practice takes place on Friday, followed by a full day of racing on Saturday. Entry to the circuit is free, and spectators are encouraged to attend.
Mikel thanks MTN Cosmo-Net, Vivo Mobile South Africa and the team at NBR Racing.