Racers kick up dust at Nelspruit Oval Track

The air was thick with the smell of petrol and the many excited adrenalin junkies found their favourite spot on the grandstand.

Bridget Mpande

April 25, 2019

I was a little nervous when I arrived at the Nelspruit Oval Track on March 9. This was going to be my absolute first time venturing into motorsport or racing reporting.

Car fanatics have garnered a reputation for being reckless and endangering the lives of others on our roads. This was certainly a different breed of car lover.

Before the proceedings kicked off and just after the drivers’ briefing, competitors formed a prayer circle.

Strict examination and safety checks of all participating cars are done to ensure the safety of all involved and to limit accidents as much as it is possible.

Before resuming my duties, I, along with everyone else on the track, received reflector jackets. This would make me highly visible and lessen the chances of any harm befalling me.

My only experience with racing comes from having watched movies like The Fast and the Furious. Seeing the action first-hand, however, put a totally different spin on the scenes that were unfolding in front of my eyes.

What struck me most was the emphasis the more experienced drivers placed on ensuring that the newer racers adhered to the safety checks. In a man versus mechanical beast situation, the latter always triumphs, so safety is of utmost importance. The event started with a slow parade lap.

Then, in the first heat of the day, the go-karts took to the tracks. Alex and Hannes Coetzee went at it first with their go-karts and displayed some serious driving skills. The next heat brought cars on to the track. This time around there were plenty of dust and stones being kicked up.

The faster the more experienced drivers went at it, the more excited the crowds became. It was quite fascinating to watch. I enjoyed the manner in which drivers were challenging one another – fast into the corners – hard braking on entering – drifting out again and no one being prepared to give an edge.

This event was not about completing the most laps, but about whoever finished first after completing the predetermined number of laps in a particular heat and class.

There are different classes which, open racing up to both novices and experienced drivers driving small and large engined cars.
Well, the experience left me slightly exhausted and next time, if there is one, I will certainly be better prepared.