Cornofsky Carries Mini ROK Lead into Killarney Finale
Kayde Cornofsky will arrive at Killarney Kart Circuit next week, leading the 2026 South African National ROK Cup Mini ROK Championship, but with very little margin for error. The Xtreme Racing Team driver holds an eight-point advantage ahead of the Spring Nats double-header, where Rounds 7 and 8 will decide the title across six heats.
The 2023 National Kid ROK Champion has built his campaign on a combination of outright speed and consistency. Cornofsky has recorded eight victories and six further podium finishes from the opening 18 heats. His most recent outing at Formula-K Raceway included a pole position, a race victory, multiple fastest laps and a Round 5 podium, helping him retain the championship lead despite a penalty and a difficult final heat on Sunday.
Killarney presents a very different final test. The challenging coastal circuit can be affected by strong winds and changing grip, while the Western Cape drivers bring valuable home-track knowledge. Cornofsky nevertheless has useful experience at the venue, having claimed a double podium there before becoming the 2025 Mini ROK National Vice-Champion.
The stakes extend beyond the championship points. The Mini ROK national champion will secure the South African title and a ticket to the ROK Cup Superfinal, while the overall Mini ROK winner of the Spring Nats will earn R25 000 in prize money, something Cornofsky accomplished at the national opening weekend. For Cornofsky, the title would be his second national crown after his Kid ROK success in 2023.
“Everything we have done this season has put us in this position, but the job is not finished,” said Kayde. “Eight points is a small lead when there are six heats left, so I need to be switched on from qualifying and take each race as it comes. Killarney is a tough track and the local drivers will be strong, but I believe in myself and the team. Winning another national title and earning the chance to race at the Superfinal would mean a lot to me.”
The Spring Nats begin with official practice on Thursday, 10 September. Friday and Saturday will each feature a complete national round comprising practice, qualifying and three heats before the respective prize-giving ceremonies. When the final chequered flag falls on Saturday, the 24-heat championship will have reached its conclusion.
Kayde extends his sincere thanks to the Xtreme Racing Team and to Allegiance Properties, Canario Cornofsky Attorneys, Calisto’s Portuguese Restaurant, Smith Garage, the 357, Glads and AMW for their continued support throughout his championship campaign.
