The resulting dampness on the track was just perfect to keep the dust under control for at least the first couple of heats. Joining the regular stalwarts, the event welcomed a number of new and young competitors. Among them were brother and sister, Micayla and Jordan Fourie, and Liam Nel.
Liam is 11 years old and this was only his second outing in the heavy metal class. This is quite daring in the sense that most new entrants to oval track racing, especially if they do not have racing experience, will start in the rookie class and with a smaller-engined car. But not this young man. “Nope, my dad competes in this class and he has suggested that I start with the same car he drives. On the straight I am okay, but keeping this power in line through the corners at a reasonable speed is a serious learning curve. I will get to that point where I will be drifting the car – just watch me.” Well, Liam, we are watching; show us what you’ve got?
The other youngsters, Jordan and Mycayla Fourie of Machadodorp, do have some racing experience and mostly on tar. Jordan, now 10 years old, has been racing in Mini Midgets since he was four. Although their cars are set up for tar, driving on gravel presents a different dynamic. And this became a reality when Jordan crashed into the barrier in the first heat. Fortunately he did not sustain any injuries and the lad seemed quite unperturbed by the whole experience.
Mycayla (13) has been racing since she was five and between the two of them, a number of race wins was accumulated. Autodealer will bring you a more in-depth profile of these youngsters in due time, so watch this space. The 1660 class always presents the best action, and with Marius de Klerk back in the seat after a long absence, the racing was hot and tight.
He also took overall honours on the day, leaving Stefan Vosloo and James Pretorius to sulk and restrategise for the next event. Marius also competed in the 2-liter class, but here, that wily old fox, Charles Wahlstrand, outfoxed him and Chris Moolman Jr. In the hotrod class, the master, Nic de Witt, proved that when one combines age, experience and an impeccably prepared car, top of the class is where you will finish. And that is exactly what he did – again! To all the aspiring young racers out there (girls included, of course), if you buy Dad a Hilux for Father’s Day, I think it would be fair to say that he would probably consider building you an oval racer – so just do it!
