Local racer looks back at 2023 season
Sharonlea racer Michael Kernick was part of some of the biggest and most historic races in the 2023 season
Racing enthusiasts buckle up as we dive into the thrilling world of Sharonlea-based Michael Kernick’s racing escapades in 2023.
His journey is nothing short of extraordinary Kernick and his father are longtime friends of Alberton Formula Libre racing duo Blane de Meillon and Bruce van Niekerk. Both de Meillon and van Niekerk can credit, in part, their racing success over the years to the assistance and advice that they have received from the Kernick family.
With a family legacy steeped in racing since 1937, Kernick had some massive shoes to fill. He didn’t just fill them – he left his tire tracks all over the 2023 season.
He explained that this year has been a total dream. “From Silver Cup 2.0 to Historic Single Seaters, Formula Monoposto/Libre, and even joining Hi-Tech Motorsports at Goodwood Revival (UK), I took on challenges and conquered triumphs beyond my wildest expectations.”
He was invited by their Swedish friends to race their 1966 Holmon Moody Chassis GT40 in the SA TT 45-minute race at the Passion for Speed event at Zwartkops Raceway.
“From testing to a nail-biting race day, it was a rollercoaster of wow moments, with a podium in sight until an unfortunate retirement due to overheating. Nevertheless, an honour to race with the Swedes and a nod to the incredible GT40 experience.”
He delved into the unpredictable world of Silver Cup 2.0, sharing the car with Paul Sullivan and clinching the Class C + Championship. The ‘misfire race’ at Zwartkops, where he maneuvered around a glitch and secured a surprising win.
And then, there was a classic Goodwood Revival in the UK – the grandest historic race meeting globally and a bucket list item for any petrolhead.
He was part of the Hi-Tech Motorsports team and found himself working on iconic cars like the Ferrari Breadvan, McLaren M1A, and the Lotus 15.
“The whole experience was like stepping back into the ’60s, complete with period clothing. It was more than a dream; it was a surreal journey into racing history. It’s really hard to summarise this year’s racing season with having so many great times happen. But one thing is for sure; it’s a season etched in the annals of racing greatness.
