What began as a whimsical idea developed into winning ways for a team of avid off-road racers. Michael Louis Smit (50), Peter Buys (56) and Cyril Pieterse (51) have become a force to be reckoned with in the off-road racing fraternity and within a few months have cemented their place in the sport.
Besides a common love for racing and an adrenaline rush, the trio grew up in Estcourt, completing their schooling and thereafter going off in their own directions. Just over a year ago, Michael approached his cousin, Peter, with an idea. He was interested in seeing and possibly purchasing an off-road racing car that had been standing dormant in a garage for six years.
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The idea seemed quirky at the time, but the men began working on the car and within a few months, it was time to put it to the test. Michael is the driver, Peter is the navigator and ‘the glue that holds the team together’ is Cyril, who is the mechanic.
Their first race was in Hanover on February 17 last year and their team is named RMS / Gerry’s Motors.
Although the competition was tough, these first-time participants left their competitors in the dust to claim their first victory. Winning this race is the team’s highlight thus far.
The win bolstered their confidence and they went back to the dusty race course again and again. Although not every race produced a win, the trio was determined to endure and live out their passion. When preparing for a race, Michael is meticulous.
“I check every inch of the car. After the prologue race, I commit the course to memory and concentrate. I rely on my driving skills and the navigator,” he said.
Peter, who is the navigator, says he becomes immersed in his own world of competitiveness when on the track.
“My job is to slow the driver down, repair any mechanical problems inside the car and help the driver navigate the course, warning him of dangers and sharp curves. I inform the driver of the distance to the next level, advising of sharp or slight turns in the course,” added Peter.
Cyril, the mechanic, is rated as one of BMW’s top technicians and his team says there is nothing he can’t fix. Together, this team is making waves in the off-road racing fraternity and hope to continue doing so. They encourage those who are interested in the sport to jump right in. “It is a very exciting sport,” says Michael.
“Have a love for the sport, because it is not about winning; it’s the teamwork and the thrill of the race,” advises Peter.
NOW SEE: See pictures from the exhilarating two-day off-road race
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