High Stakes Rotax Regional Awaits as Academy Drivers Prepare for Final National
The Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy (TGRJA) returns to action this weekend as the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championship enters its second half with Round 4 at Zwartkops Kart Raceway. Fresh from the drama and high stakes of the recent African Open, where coveted tickets to the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals were clinched, the focus now shifts back to regional competition.
This round is crucial preparation for the final national round in two weeks' time; it also contributes points to competitors' national tally, where championship titles and spots on Team South Africa are still attainable.
Zwartkops, a cornerstone of South African karting, will provide a familiar yet demanding battleground for the academy's talented lineup. The 1 070-metre circuit is famed for its tight, technical layout combined with flowing sections that reward precision and consistency, essential traits as the season's pressure mounts.
Senior MAX – Swartz Leads the Charge, Lenaerts Recharged
Senior MAX championship leader Kent Swartz will aim to extend his narrow advantage after a strong first half of the season. With multiple wins already under his belt, Swartz knows that a strong showing at Zwartkops could give him the cushion he needs heading into the final stretch.
Teammate Georgia Lenaerts sits inside the top ten and will be determined to convert her pace into big points after a season marked by flashes of brilliance and determined fightbacks. A strong second half keeps her in the hunt for a top-three finish.
Junior MAX – Dowling Eyes Climb, Shisinwana Targets Consistency
In Junior MAX, Emma-Rose Dowling remains in striking distance of the leaders despite missing the opening round. She'll look to make gains at a track that has historically suited her style.
Tshepang Shisinwana, meanwhile, sits comfortably inside the top five, 16 points adrift of the top, and will target consistent podium finishes to keep his championship hopes alive.
Mini MAX – Kaiyamo Twins Building Momentum
Namibian brothers Nande and Mandume Kaiyamo have shown steady improvement through the opening rounds, both climbing the points table with each outing. Nande's current top-ten standing reflects his growing pace, while Mandume's resilience has kept him in contention despite early-season setbacks.
With the African Open experience fresh in their minds and the season's business end in sight, the TGRJA squad is primed to deliver another competitive weekend at one of the nation's most iconic karting venues.
Team Principal's Perspective
"The second half of the season is where championships are won or lost," said Team Principal Leeroy Poulter. "We've seen our drivers grow in confidence and capability, and Zwartkops is the perfect place to put that into action ahead of the nationals."
The action kicks off on Saturday with a Warm-Up Session and Qualifying. Three heats will determine the overall winner in what is expected to be another thrilling Rotax karting race day.
De Wet Determined to Strike Back in Second Half of Micro MAX Season
Luhan de Wet, the ever-consistent Motorsport Fanatix™ ambassador, heads into the second half of the 2025 MSA Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championship just a few points adrift of the Micro MAX lead. The Xtreme Racing Team driver has been in the thick of the title fight since the season opener, delivering heat wins and podiums with trademark pace and precision.
Currently sitting on 199 points to championship leader Adriaan Steyn’s 201, Luhan knows the margin is razor-thin. With just three rounds remaining, every race will count. His blend of speed and racecraft has already seen him claim victories under pressure, and he will be eager to turn that determination into a decisive points swing.
"The gap is small, and I’m going to fight for every point,” says Luhan. “We’ve been fast all season, and now it’s about keeping that momentum, staying focused, and making the most of every opportunity.”
With Zwartkops next on the calendar, a track where Luhan has tasted success before, fans can expect a fierce charge as he pushes to seize the championship lead and set himself up for a title-clinching run.
Backed by De Wet Automotive Service & Repair Services, Luhan's campaign is far from over; in fact, it's just heating up.
Bambino Pace-Setter De Oliveira Primed for Second Half Push
Defending Northern Regions Bambino Champion and current points leader Alonzo de Oliveira heads into the second half of the 2025 season with momentum firmly on his side. The Motorsport Fanatix™ brand ambassador tops the standings on 210 points, buoyed by a consistent and commanding run that included a strong performance last time out at Zwartkops in May.
The Stretto Racing star has been a front-runner from the outset this year, weathering early-season challenges before hitting his stride with dominant pace and measured race craft. His most recent regional outing saw him fend off close championship rival Sebastien Shuttleworth, extending his lead to nine points in the process.
Now returning to the technical and fast Zwartkops layout, Alonzo will be looking to capitalise on his proven speed at the venue. With only three rounds remaining, every point is vital in the fight for back-to-back titles. A repeat of his earlier form here could prove decisive in keeping his rivals at bay.
“I’m feeling confident going into this round,” Alonzo said. “We’ve worked hard between races, and I know what it takes to win at Zwartkops. The goal is to stay consistent, keep scoring big points, and push for more wins.”
Alonzo is proudly supported by Y2K Germiston, MSLB Projects, Amigos Portugueses, Freddy Hirsch, S.Y. Wholesale Butchery, Hercules Foods, Hercules Sauces, and HPP.
Qualifying and three heat races will provide plenty of wheel-to-wheel action this Saturday as the battle for the Northern Regions Bambino crown intensifies.
Spies Recovers, Bezuidenhout Shines in East London
Corsa dei Gemelli enjoyed a breakthrough weekend at the second round of the 2025 Investchem MSA4 Championship at the East London Grand Prix Circuit, as the team walked away with its first pole position and two race podiums courtesy of Mikel Bezuidenhout.
The weekend began with minor frustrations for Kian Spies, whose Friday running was limited due to niggling mechanical issues and red-flagged sessions. Thanks to a concerted overnight effort by the team, those gremlins were fully resolved in time for Saturday's qualifying session, allowing the 21-year-old Johannesburg native to contest the remainder of the event without trouble.
In stark contrast, Mikel Bezuidenhout was in scintillating form from the moment he rolled out onto the fast, flowing Eastern Cape circuit. The 17-year-old laid down a statement lap in qualifying to claim his, and the team’s, maiden pole position.
Race 1 saw Mikel initially hold position before slipping to second. Despite immense pressure from behind, he held firm to secure a well-earned runner-up finish. Kian, having started further back, drove steadily through the pack to take eighth, a commendable effort given his compromised preparation.
Race 2 saw a red flag and a restart, with both drivers offering the same composure and pace. Mikel completed the weekend with another podium, this time in third place, rounding off a landmark outing for the team. Kian, meanwhile, brought his #11 machine home in sixth place, marking his best finish of the season so far and confirming the effectiveness of the team's efforts on Friday.
With Mikel now firmly entrenched in the title fight and Kian showing increasing comfort in the car, Corsa dei Gemelli continues to build solid momentum heading into the next round.
Corsa dei Gemelli proudly acknowledges its partners Huawei, MTN CosmoNet, and Mix FM 93.8 for their continued support.
Bezuidenhout Banks Pole and Double Podium at East London EXTREME FEST
Mikel Bezuidenhout continued his impressive Investchem MSA4 campaign with a strong showing at Round 2 of the championship, hosted at the high-speed East London Grand Prix Circuit this past weekend.
Driving for Corsa dei Gemelli, the Sandton teenager topped the Friday practice timesheets. He carried that momentum into qualifying, where he stormed to pole position, his first of the season.
Saturday's action saw Mikel deliver two composed drives, underlining his credentials as a genuine championship contender. In Race 1, Mikel lost the race lead to championship rival, KC Ensor-Smith, to finish as the runner-up.
Race 2, however, saw a red flag stoppage as a result of a start-line incident after Mikel made a strong start from the front row. At the restart, Mikel made another lightning start and soon challenged for the lead heading out of Cocabana Corner. Unable to make the pass, he attempted another pass a lap later but ran off line and dropped to third, where he would eventually finish.
Reflecting on the weekend, Mikel remained upbeat:
"We were quick out of the box on Friday, and qualifying went perfectly. Race 1 was strong, I had a good pace but didn’t want to risk too much. Race 2 was a bit tougher and I risked a little more, which didn’t pay off in the end. But another double-podium keeps us in the mix for the championship. Huge thanks to the team at Corsa dei Gemelli for the support and setup work this weekend."
With a pole position, two top-three finishes, and valuable points added to his tally, Mikel remains firmly in the hunt as the MSA4 Championship heads to Cape Town for Round 3 in September. His consistency and speed across both rounds have marked him as one of the standout performers in the series thus far.
Learning Curve Continues for Dawie VD Merwe in the Eastern Cape
It was a challenging outing for Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa's Dawie van der Merwe at Round 5 of the SATC SupaCup Championship, held at the high-speed East London Grand Prix Circuit this past weekend. Despite continued efforts by Fast Developments and some signs of progress, Dawie struggled to match the pace of the dominant VW Supa Polo contingent.
In Saturday's qualifying session, Dawie placed seventh among the SupaCup runners with a best lap of 1:30.144, just under two seconds off the pole time set by Tate Bishop (1:28.473). The Toyota Starlet pilot's qualifying result left him in the thick of midfield traffic heading into the races.
Race 1 saw Dawie finish 5th in class. While he managed to keep the car in one piece and bring it home, the Starlet couldn't match the performance of the Polos around East London's iconic circuit.
In Race 2, Dawie's pace marginally improved, dipping into the 1:30.5 range once again. He crossed the line 6th in class, but with valuable race mileage under his belt as the team continues to develop the Supa Starlet platform.
"It’s always tough when you’re giving it everything but still find yourself off the pace," Dawie commented after Race 2. "We knew this wouldn’t be an easy weekend, but we've learned a lot. The team is working hard, and we’ll keep fighting to close the gap."
Dawie will be looking for more performance gains ahead of Round 6 at the Killarney International Raceway. While the results didn't reflect the team's efforts, the experience gathered at one of the country's fastest circuits will aid development heading into the final two rounds of the season.
Tyler Robinson Unshaken After Race 2 Incident in Eventful Polo Cup Weekend
The penultimate coastal round of the 2025 Astron Energy Polo Cup at the East London Grand Prix Circuit served up a dramatic and bruising weekend for Tyler Robinson. Despite a promising pace throughout the weekend and a strong showing in Race 1, Race 2 was marred by incidents, including one that directly involved Tyler.
After progressing into the SuperPole Shootout, Tyler showcased her consistency and solid pace by securing fifth position on the Race 1 grid. She then went on to deliver another composed drive in the opening race, crossing the line fifth overall and strengthening her bid for a top-three finish in the championship standings.
However, Race 2 took a turn when two separate incidents triggered a red flag stoppage, one of which involved Tyler. The incidents brought the race to a premature end, and with fading light, was called off. Although the nature of the accident was concerning, Tyler was thankfully uninjured and was able to return home that same evening after customary medical checks.
“While this wasn’t the weekend we had hoped for, I’m incredibly grateful to be uninjured,” Tyler commented. “A huge thank you to the medics, and officials who were on the scene so quickly, and to the organisers for doing their utmost to ensure the safety of all drivers. These things happen in racing, and we’ll bounce back stronger.”
Despite the setback, Tyler’s composed performance in Race 1 and her ever-growing presence in the championship remain a testament to her resilience and talent. Heading into the next round at Killarney in September, she remains on track for a strong finish in the overall championship standings.
Tyler continues to race with the backing of AF Fans, Freem, and RKT Motorsport.
Van der Merwe Looks to Build on SupaCup Progress in East London
The South African Touring Cars SupaCup Championship heads to the iconic East London Grand Prix Circuit next weekend for Round 5, where Dawie van der Merwe will be aiming to continue his steady momentum in what has been a season of consistent growth and development.
Currently fifth in the championship standings with 62 points, Dawie has delivered solid performances throughout the season despite facing various technical challenges, including overheating issues in the previous round that limited his ability to fight forward.
The fast and flowing layout of East London, known for its high-speed Potter's Pass and unpredictable coastal weather, presents a new challenge. It's a track that rewards bravery and commitment, and Dawie's experience and adaptability will be key assets as he seeks to break into the top five results once again.
While the Toyota SupaStarlet may still lack the outright pace of the leading machines, Dawie and the Fast Developments crew remain committed to pushing forward in the second half of the season. With every round bringing progress, a strong showing at East London could be just what the team needs to turn consistency into podium contention.
The action kicks off next Friday with official practice ahead of qualifying and two races on Saturday. Tickets are available at the gate on race day, and spectators are encouraged to attend.
Sandton Teen Prepares to Tame East London in MSA4 Showdown
Mikel Bezuidenhout returns to single-seater action next weekend as the Investchem MSA4 Championship heads to the legendary East London Grand Prix Circuit for Round 2 of the 2025 season.
Following a challenging opener at Zwartkops Raceway, where a mix of teething issues and valuable seat time still saw him claim a vital race victory, the Corsa dei Gemelli driver is hungry for consistency and big points. Mikel currently sits third in the provisional standings on 17 points, just one behind second-placed Renzo Ribeiro and ten adrift of series leader KC Ensor-Smith.
At 17, the Sandton-based racer is balancing a packed schedule that includes national karting duties in the Senior MAX category while spearheading the brand-new Corsa dei Gemelli effort in MSA4. With a full season of Formula 1600 experience under his belt and the team gaining valuable technical insight each round, Mikel’s sights are firmly set on the front of the field.
East London’s high-speed nature and iconic corners, such as Potter’s Pass and Rifle Bend, demand commitment and confidence, qualities Mikel has shown early on in his career. The circuit’s sweeping layout is expected to suit the flow and rhythm of the new MSA4 machinery, and drivers who are quick to adapt will be rewarded handsomely.
Mikel commented ahead of the round:
“East London is one of those tracks where rhythm is everything. I’ve been looking forward to racing there in the new MSA4 car. After getting that win at Zwartkops, we know the pace is there, we just need to string a clean weekend together and challenge for the podium again.”
With support from MTN Cosmo-Net and Huawei Mobile South Africa, Mikel’s 2025 campaign is backed by key partners who believe in his rising trajectory through the South African motorsport ranks.
Round 2 of the championship promises to deliver high-speed drama and a true test of young driver talent as the MSA4 field tackles one of South Africa’s fastest and most revered circuits. All eyes will be on Mikel to see if he can convert speed into points and reignite his title challenge.
Stay tuned for live updates and streaming via the Extreme Festival digital platforms.
Flat-Out and Fearless: CDG Tackles the High-Speed Grand Prix Circuit
After a promising debut in South Africa's all-new Investchem MSA4 Championship, Corsa dei Gemelli makes its way to the Eastern Cape for Round 2 at the iconic East London Grand Prix Circuit. Known for its flowing bends, tight corners and coastal winds, the high-speed layout promises to challenge both driver and machine, a true test of bravery, rhythm, and commitment.
Mikel Bezuidenhout, now 17 and already a race winner in the series, will be looking to build on the momentum from Zwartkops, where he bounced back from early struggles to claim a dominant victory in Race 3. With a full season of single-seater racing under his belt and growing confidence behind the wheel, Mikel enters the weekend focused, determined, and eager to keep the pressure on the championship front-runners.
"We learned a lot in Round 1," Mikel explains. "The win in Race 3 gave us a real boost. I know East London's going to be a different kind of challenge, it's fast, and there's not much margin for error. But I'm excited. We've got a strong baseline now, and I'm looking forward to getting stuck in."
Teammate Kian Spies will also look to make strides in his learning curve. The 21-year-old from Johannesburg impressed on debut with a solid performance and a top-ten result in only his first weekend of national single-seater competition. Despite not having driven the circuit before, Kian has approached the challenge with professionalism and focus, leaning on past karting experience, team feedback, and video analysis to prepare for next weekend.
"This whole journey has been about pushing myself out of my comfort zone," Kian says. "I've always wanted to race here. It's fast and old school, and you don't really get any second chances if you go off at high speed. I've watched as much footage as I can, but nothing replaces the real thing. I'm looking forward to learning fast and putting together a strong weekend for the team."
As the championship heads into its second round, Corsa dei Gemelli continues to grow as a team, both in pace and confidence. The East London Grand Prix Circuit, with legendary corners like Potters Pass and Rifle Bend, will reward the brave and punish even the smallest mistakes. With high speeds, limited overtaking zones, and unpredictable coastal weather, success will depend on qualifying well and managing race craft under pressure.
None of this would be possible without the support of our incredible partners. Corsa dei Gemelli proudly represents a new generation of South African motorsport, backed by Huawei, MTN CosmoNet, and Mix FM 93.8. Their support is instrumental in helping us develop young talent and compete at the highest level.
With eyes set on another strong weekend, Corsa dei Gemelli is ready for the next chapter in this exciting new championship.
Tyler Robinson Continues Her Charge in a Season of Firsts
The next round of the 2025 Astron Energy Polo Cup Championship returns to the Eastern Cape and the legendary East London Grand Prix Circuit, with Tyler Robinson looking to bounce back and reignite her momentum in the title fight.
The iconic coastal circuit, famous for its breathtaking backdrop and high-speed "Potter's Pass", will provide a stern test of bravery and commitment as South Africa's top one-make cup drivers go head-to-head.
After a sensational start that included a historic maiden victory at Kyalami and a string of strong results, Tyler currently sits sixth in the overall standings, only 13 points off third position. While a non-finish at Zwartkops impacted her climb, the AF Fans-supported driver remains confident following her runner-up finish in the final race at the last round.
"Even though the last round was a topsy-turvy affair with a strong second and a DNF, we've reset as we head to East London with a clear focus," said Tyler. "It's a circuit that really rewards confidence and commitment, and I'm excited to 'head back this season where we'll be pushing hard and looking for another strong result."
Tyler's 2025 campaign has been filled with milestone moments, from securing a pole to becoming just the second woman in Polo Cup history to win a race. Her consistency and determination have made her a fan favourite and a serious threat in one of South Africa's most competitive national championships.
With championship leader Mohammed Karodia holding a narrow lead at the top, the battle in the top six remains fierce. A big points haul in East London could see Tyler jump up the standings and place herself firmly back in the title hunt ahead of the return to Killarney and the season finale at Zwartkops.
Backed by AF Fans, Freem, and RKT Motorsport, and racing under the Universal Racing banner, Tyler remains one of the standout drivers in the 2025 field, proving that perseverance, talent, and passion continue to break new ground for women in motorsport.
Ronaldo Koen Clinches African Open and Books Ticket to Bahrain with Record-Breaking Drive
Eleven-year-old Ronaldo Koen from Benoni delivered a career-defining performance at Zwartkops Kart Raceway this past weekend, storming to victory in the final of the 2025 Rotax African Open to earn a coveted seat at the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals later this year in Bahrain, the event widely regarded as the "Olympics of Karting."
Racing out of the Neil Basilio Racing stable, Ronaldo showcased maturity and consistency beyond his years in the ultra-competitive Mini MAX class, which featured a massive 33-driver grid from across the continent. After qualifying fifth fastest, Ronaldo maintained his composure in the opening pre-final to finish third, just under two seconds behind the race winner.
It was in the second pre-final, however, that Ronaldo truly made his intentions clear. With a flawless drive from start to finish, he led every lap and fended off intense pressure to take the win, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.
In the all-important winner-takes-all final, Ronaldo once again rose to the occasion, executing a calculated and confident race to secure victory and, with it, one of South Africa's prized international seats. His performance was nothing short of remarkable. Not only did he take the win, but he also shattered the existing Mini MAX lap record at Zwartkops with a blistering time that underlined just how dominant his final run was.
Having begun his karting journey in the Bambino class, Ronaldo has steadily risen through the ranks as part of a talented generation of young South African racers. His win at Zwartkops marks not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for his family, which has supported his growth every step of the way.
"This is something I’ve wanted to win for some time now. Being crowned champion is one thing, but getting the opportunity to represent my country on the global stage is next level. All glory to God, without whom this would not be possible. I also want to give a massive thank you to my family for always encouraging me and providing the much-needed support," said Ronaldo after the race.
With Bahrain now on the horizon, the Mini MAX African Open Champion will carry the South African flag with pride as he takes on the world's best later this year.
Kian Spies Shines at African Open with Career-Best Senior MAX Performance
Kian Spies produced his strongest showing to date in the Senior MAX class at this past weekend’s Rotax African Open, delivering a composed and competitive performance that confirmed his status as a front-running threat.
The 21-year-old from Johannesburg, who has been racing in Senior MAX for several seasons with the Xtreme Racing team, showcased his experience and maturity in a stacked field featuring South Africa’s top karting talents.
Kian laid down a competitive 42.320-second lap in the late-afternoon qualifying session to secure P8. Just half a second off the front row, the time placed him on the cleaner outside line for Pre-Final 1 and hinted at the pace to come. A well-timed launch saw him immediately begin climbing the order. His racecraft and consistency were on full display as he worked his way to fourth by the flag, just over a second behind the winner.
In Pre-Final 2, starting from row two, Kian snatched the lead on lap two and held the position through the opening stages before engaging in a thrilling three-way fight with Charl Visser and Kent Swartz. He crossed the line in third and posted one of his best laps of the weekend (42.227).
The result earned him a spot on the second row for the all-important final.
From third on the grid, Kian stayed within striking distance of the leaders for much of the final. But a mid-race incident while fighting for a podium shuffled him down the order. Despite a spirited recovery and personal best lap of 42.093 seconds, he had to settle for twelfth at the flag, a result that didn’t reflect the level of performance shown throughout the weekend.
Just two weeks prior, Kian made his debut in South Africa’s premier single-seater series, the Investchem MSA4 Championship, a platform designed to bridge young talent into global formula racing. His step into formula cars reflects a growing ambition to take his motorsport journey beyond karting and ultimately race abroad.
“It was a heartbreaking end to an otherwise amazing event. It’s always a shame to come so close to winning a race this big, but at least we put ourselves in the position to win, and sometimes that’s all you can do. Still, so many positives to take away from it. And the kindness and respect so many people showed me after the final was really special,” said Kian after the race.
With confidence high and momentum building, Kian will now shift his focus to Round 2 of the MSA4 championship in East London before engaging in another Senior MAX battle at the final SARMC National at Zwartkops in August.
Coetzee Clinches African Open Glory to Lead TGRJA's Bahrain Charge
The Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy (TGRJA) produced a strong showing at the 2025 Rotax African Open at Zwartkops Kart Raceway, with standout drives across DD2, Senior MAX, and Junior MAX. While the weekend saw mixed fortunes for some, it culminated in a dominant win by Jason Coetzee in DD2, earning him a coveted place at the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals (RMCGF) in Bahrain.
DD2
Jason Coetzee delivered a flawless weekend at Zwartkops to claim the African Open title and secure a ticket to the RMCGF in Bahrain.
Coetzee stamped his authority early by storming to pole position in Friday's qualifying. He followed that with commanding victories in both Pre-Final 1 and Pre-Final 2, leading almost every lap consistently.
In the all-important 20-lap final, Jason led from lights to flag, holding off intense pressure from his closest rivals and setting a consistent race pace. He crossed the line first to take the win, completing a weekend clean sweep and becoming one of the first South African drivers to secure his place at the RMCGF. Jason will be making his second appearance at the Grand Finals.
Senior MAX
The Senior MAX duo of Kent Swartz and Georgia Lenaerts showcased grit and pace throughout the African Open. Swartz was a front-runner all weekend, narrowly missing out on pole by just 0.016s. Despite a nose-cone penalty dropping him from 3rd to 8th in Pre-Final 1, he bounced back in Pre-Final 2 with a strong second place. In the final, Kent once again featured at the sharp end but finished as runner-up.
Lenaerts delivered one of her best performances of the season. After finishing 7th in Pre-Final 1, she stepped it up in Pre-Final 2 to take an excellent 4th. Her consistency carried over into the final, where she crossed the line in 6th.
Both drivers walked away from Zwartkops, having reaffirmed their ability to challenge at the front. Swartz is a podium threat at every outing, and Lenaerts continues her climb up the order with poise and consistency.
Junior MAX
Emma-Rose Dowling lit up the timing screens from the outset, claiming a dominant pole position in qualifying. She backed this up with a blistering drive in Pre-Final 1, finishing a close second. Emma returned to the top in Pre-Final 2, taking a superb lights-to-flag victory under pressure, positioning herself as a firm favourite heading into the all-important final.
However, her hopes were dashed by an error under braking that saw her drop to the back of the field, where she valiantly fought her way back to finish 12th. Despite the setback, Emma's outright pace once again underscored her championship-calibre speed.
Tshepang Shisinwana, meanwhile, flew under the radar in qualifying, placing just outside the top ten. But the reigning Mini MAX champion found his rhythm as the weekend progressed. He stormed to second in Pre-Final 2 after a spirited battle and posted the second-fastest lap of the race. In the final, Tshepang finished 9th after an incident, which dampened what was otherwise a highly competitive run.
Both drivers displayed exceptional racecraft and composure in one of the most fiercely contested Junior MAX grids of the year. While the final result may not reflect their potential, their performances reaffirm TGRJA's position as a powerhouse in youth motorsport development.
Mini MAX
TGRJA's Namibian brothers, Mandume and Nande Kaiyamo, tackled their most formidable challenge yet at the African Open, lining up against a mammoth 35-kart Mini MAX grid at Zwartkops.
Nande impressed early by qualifying inside the top 20, showcasing continued growth in a highly competitive field. He gained valuable race experience across both heats, staying clean and consistent to secure a place in the all-important final. In a chaotic final race, Nande brought the kart home in 19th place, finishing ahead of his sibling.
Mandume, although starting further back, showed determination throughout the weekend. He fought through both Pre-Finals to finish just outside the top 25 after a bruising final encounter that saw multiple incidents throughout the field.
Despite not contending for the win, the Kaiyamo twins gained crucial experience under pressure. They held their own in one of the most significant and most fiercely contested classes of the event.
Team Principal's Reflection
Team Principal and former RMC Grand Finals winner Leeroy Poulter praised the team's efforts:
"We saw some phenomenal performances this weekend. Jason was flawless, and it's incredible to have one of our drivers already heading to Bahrain. Kent and Georgia both showed real grit in a tough Senior field, and while Emma and Tshepang didn't get the results they deserved, their speed was undeniable. This is what the African Open is all about, high-pressure racing, and our team stepped up."
With the African Open complete, TGRJA's attention now turns to the penultimate round of the South African Rotax MAX Challenge, set to take place at the same Zwartkops circuit in August. Armed with race data and momentum, the academy's drivers will look to convert their pace into national championship points as the battle for Grand Finals tickets continues.
Max Boshoff Misses Grand Finals Ticket But Proves His Class at Zwartkops
Cape Town's Max Boshoff walked away from the 2025 Rotax African Open with a strong sixth-place finish in the highly competitive Mini MAX Final, capping off a weekend of fierce competition at Zwartkops Kart Raceway.
Lining up in a field of 33 of Africa's top competitors, all looking to earn a ticket to the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals (RMCGF), Max qualified 8th. While he didn't quite have the outright pace of the front-runners, he remained in the hunt and focused on consistency heading into the heats.
In Pre-Final 1, Max ran inside the top ten throughout and crossed the line in 7th. An improved and solid drive in Pre-Final 2 saw him move forward to 3rd place at the flag, earning a second-row start for the winner-takes-all Final.
The Final proved to be a thriller. Max got off to a clean start and quickly moved into third, running comfortably in podium contention in the early stages. As the race wore on, the lead group began to edge away, and Max ultimately slipped a few positions, crossing the line in 6th after 15 tough laps.
While he missed out on the Grand Finals ticket awarded to the race winner, Max once again proved his ability to compete among the continent's best in the most extensive and talent-packed grids of the season.
Currently, Max heads up the national standings in both the Mini MAX and Mini ROK championships. With consistent pace and maturity beyond his years, he's on track to become the first driver to potentially win both titles in the same season, solidifying his place as one of the finest talents of his generation in his age category.
"I had a good start and gave it my best," Max said. "We just lacked a bit of speed at the end, but it was awesome to be in the fight. I still have another chance to earn that ticket to the finals, so my focus remains on the task at hand. Thanks to everyone at Xtreme Racing for the support!"
Max now shifts focus to the upcoming championship rounds, where he'll continue his double-title quest across both series.
De Oliveira Crowned African Open Bambino Champion in Zwartkops Sweep
Motorsport Fanatix™ brand ambassador Alonzo de Oliveira delivered a masterclass performance to clinch his first major title by winning the Bambino class at the 2025 Rotax African Open.
Facing off against 14 other Bambino drivers at Zwartkops Kart Raceway, the Johannesburg-based star was untouchable from the moment qualifying began. Alonzo clocked a blistering 58.992 seconds in qualifying, setting the fastest time by more than two seconds and securing pole position for the opening pre-final.
From there, Alonzo never looked back. In Pre-Final 1, he led every lap and crossed the line over 23 seconds clear of his nearest rival. In Pre-Final 2, he repeated the feat to seal pole for the all-important Final.
The stage was then set for a winner-takes-all showdown in the eight-lap Final, and once again, Alonzo delivered. He rocketed off the line and quickly established a lead that only grew with every lap. Not only did he control the race from start to finish, but he also improved on his qualifying time, setting the quickest lap of the event with a new best of 58.770 seconds.
At the flag, Alonzo took victory by over 11 seconds, stamping his authority on the continent’s biggest single-day karting event. The win marks his most prestigious career achievement to date and adds to an already impressive 2025 season, in which he leads both the Northern Regions and National Bambino Championships.
“Winning the African Open is a dream come true,” said Alonzo. “We’ve worked really hard for this moment. Thank you to my team, family, and all my amazing sponsors for their belief in me. This one’s for them!”
Alonzo continues to enjoy support from a powerful lineup of partners: Y2K Germiston, MSLB Projects, Amigos Portugueses, Freddy Hirsch, S.Y. Wholesale Butchery, Hercules Foods, Hercules Sauces, and HPP.
As he marches on with confidence and momentum, the African Open title is a milestone victory for a driver destined for even greater heights.
De Wet Narrowly Misses African Open Crown in Zwartkops Thriller
Luhan de Wet, a Motorsport Fanatix™ ambassador, came agonisingly close to claiming the 2025 Rotax African Open Micro MAX title yesterday at Zwartkops Kart Raceway.
After delivering a consistently strong weekend and two tactically executed pre-final victories, the young Centurion-based racer was edged out in the final race by a heartbreaking last-corner move from class rival Adriaan Steyn.
Luhan entered the event as one of the favourites, and he lived up to that billing in style. Qualifying second, he controlled both pre-finals, leading for the majority of laps and showing maturity beyond his years in managing pressure from behind.
The all-important final heat—the winner-takes-all showdown—saw Luhan start from pole and lead for most of the race, before Adriaan made a pass for the lead. Luhan immediately countered with a pass of his own, taking the lead on the final lap. But with a corner to go, a minor moment saw him run marginally wide, opening the door for Adriaan to pounce and snatch victory.
Despite the disappointment, Luhan remains firmly in the hunt for international glory. The Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals seat for Micro MAX is still up for grabs through the South African Rotax MAX Challenge Championship, where Luhan leads with a round to go.
“This one hurts, especially with how well the weekend was going,” Luhan admitted after the final. “But I know I need to now focus on the main prize. The Grand Finals in Bahrain is my dream, and I’ll give everything in the final national championship round to make that happen.
Record-Breaking Run Propels Steyn to African Open Glory
Adriaan Steyn delivered the most significant performance of his career to date by claiming the 2025 Rotax African Open Micro MAX title in a dramatic winner-takes-all final at Zwartkops Kart Raceway yesterday. The Centurion-based driver not only secured victory in a hotly-contested showdown with rival Luhan De Wet but also etched his name into the history books by setting a new lap record around the famed Pretoria circuit.
From the outset, the weekend had all the hallmarks of a classic. Adriaan set the tone on Friday afternoon by storming to pole position, narrowly edging out his rival by just 0.128s. Saturday's two qualifying heats saw the title favourites go toe-to-toe from the onset, where Adriaan finished as runner-up in both Pre-Final heats to secure a front row start for the final.
Adriaan had quietly been building momentum and saving his best for last. Lining up in second on the grid for the final, Adriaan knew that only a win would secure the coveted African Open title. What followed was a masterclass in driving. Despite trailing Luhan for the majority of the race, Adriaan pounced in the closing laps and snatched the lead on Lap 10. Losing the lead a few corners later and with only a lap remaining, Adriaan again tucked in behind his opponent before making the race-winning pass at the final turn. Taking the chequered flag, he also recorded a new circuit record of 46.193 seconds.
"What a race! I had to give it absolutely everything," said an elated Steyn. "Luhan was incredibly quick all weekend, but I just kept pushing and knew I had one shot in the final. To take the win and break the lap record makes it even more special."
This triumph marks a significant milestone in Adriaan's career. A former national Bambino Champion, he now adds an African Open title to his growing resume, placing him firmly among South Africa's top junior karting talents.
Adriaan is proudly supported by Greensky, Q4 Fuels, and Sparco, whose unwavering backing continues to fuel his rise through the karting ranks.
Legend in the Making: Caleb Odendaal Wins African Open Number Three
East London’s Caleb Odendaal added yet another chapter to his growing legacy by securing his third African Open title yesterday at Zwartkops Kart Raceway. The three-time national champion and two-time African Open winner delivered an outstanding performance in the Junior MAX final, overcoming mid-race pressure and earlier setbacks to emerge victorious in a nail-biting finish.
The African Open’s unique format meant everything came down to the all-or-nothing final, but the road there was far from smooth for Odendaal. After qualifying seventh on Friday, Caleb had to dig deep during the two Pre-Finals to improve his starting position.
A strong performance in Pre-Final 1 was hampered by a nose-cone infringement, resulting in a five-second penalty and dropping him to 5th in the adjusted results. In Pre-Final 2, the Motorsport Fanatix™ ambassador struck back with blistering pace, setting the fastest lap of the race (42.085 seconds) and leading for several laps before an incident pushed him down the order to finish sixth.
Lining up fifth on the grid for the 18-lap final, Caleb wasted no time in making his presence felt. He launched into the lead by the opening turn before a thrilling back-and-forth battle with Matteo Mason unfolded. The two swapped positions multiple times in a tactical and fiercely clean fight.
With just two laps remaining, Odendaal reclaimed the lead and held off Mason in a drag race to the flag, taking the win by just 0.085 seconds, one of the closest finishes in recent African Open memory.
“It feels incredible to win it again,” Caleb said post-race. “There were moments this weekend where things didn’t go to plan, but we never gave up. Huge thanks to my team, Legend Motors, and Kart Republic Africa for believing in me. This one means a lot.”
With the win, Caleb secured South Africa’s first Junior MAX ticket to the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain, his third career RMCGF qualification, a feat achieved by only a select few in South African karting history.
Caleb Odendaal remains one of many incredibly talented drivers from the Eastern Cape, continuing to inspire with his relentless work ethic and composure under pressure. No doubt the trip to Bahrain will be an expensive one, and anyone who would like to come on board to assist the young champion on his quest for an RMCGF title can call Raymond on 0824971850.
African Open Awaits: TGRJA Drivers Eye Grand Finals Berths
Emma-Rose Dowling at last season’s African Open held at the Killarney Kart Track, Cape Town
The Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy (TGRJA) heads to Zwartkops Kart Raceway this weekend with one goal in mind—securing the ultimate prize at the Rotax African Open. Unlike any round on the national or regional calendar, the African Open is a unique, high-stakes event where consistency in two qualifying heats determines a driver’s grid slot for a single, winner-takes-all final. And with a golden ticket to the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain on the line, every lap counts.
Blank Slate, Big Stakes
This event resets the playing field. Regional dominance and national podiums hold no significance here. Each TGRJA driver arrives at Zwartkops with a clean slate, where raw speed, smart racecraft, and calculated aggression could unlock the door to international glory. For those who don’t win their national championships, this could be their one shot at a Grand Finals berth.
Mini MAX – Mandume & Nande Kaiyamo
The Namibian twins face their biggest grid yet, with over 35 competitors set to take the start. Nande has shown rapid progress in recent national events, while Mandume continues to close the gap to the front. With a large field and tight margins, the brothers must remain composed throughout the heats to have a chance at securing a competitive grid slot in the final.
Junior MAX – Tshepang Shisinwana & Emma-Rose Dowling
Both drivers have tasted success this season. Emma-Rose stormed to victory in the Killarney national opener and leads the Junior standings. Tshepang, the 2024 Mini MAX champion and one of only two academy drivers to have participated in the RMCGF before, has shown blistering pace but has been hampered by incidents. In a 19-kart field, both will be eyeing the front row come final time.
Senior MAX – Kent Swartz & Georgia Lenaerts
Kent, a former champion and another who has raced for South Africa at the RMCGF, enters the weekend with confidence, having shown good pace at Zwartkops earlier this season. Lenaerts, while unlucky with incidents, has consistently been on the pace. A clean run through the heats could see both firmly in the hunt for victory in a stacked 25-kart field.
DD2 – Jason Coetzee
TGRJA’s DD2 stalwart heads into the weekend as one of the class favourites. After winning five of six national heats this season, Coetzee will look to convert his form into African Open success. With a 16-driver field, his experience and pace could prove decisive in the final.
Weekend Format
The event kicks off with six practice sessions on Thursday, followed by four more on Friday before a late-afternoon qualifying session. Saturday delivers the main action, two qualifying heats set the stage before the crucial final race, where only one name per class will be etched into the Rotax African Open history books.
For the TGRJA, this weekend is about more than trophies. It’s about seizing the moment, stepping up on the continental stage, and chasing a dream that ends under the lights of Bahrain.
Team Principal’s Perspective
TGRJA Team Principal Leeroy Poulter, a former Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals winner himself, shared his thoughts ahead of the weekend:
“The African Open is a pressure cooker, it’s one race, one chance, and anything can happen. As someone who’s stood on the top step at the RMCGF, I know how much this opportunity means. Our academy drivers have shown resilience and speed this year, and I believe every one of them has what it takes to bring home the ticket to Bahrain. Now it’s about staying focused and delivering when it counts.”