No Margin for Error: Steyn Prepped for African Open Decider

Centurion's Adriaan Steyn returns to a familiar hunting ground this weekend as he lines up for one of the most prestigious karting events on the South African calendar, the Rotax African Open, held at Zwartkops Kart Raceway.

Unlike national rounds that award points over three heats, the African Open has a unique format that culminates in a winner-takes-all final heat. Competitors battle through two qualifying heats, with points earned determining their grid positions for Saturday's grand finale, a single race that ultimately decides the winner.

While the African Open offers Micro MAX drivers only an air ticket to the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals (RMCGF), the national champion, however, is rewarded with an entry to the "Olympics of Karting."

Adriaan remains highly motivated to add the prestigious title to his growing résumé. The former national Bambino Champion has a track record of bouncing back strongly.  

Zwartkops, a circuit where Adriaan has enjoyed success in the past, presents a golden opportunity to assert himself against the country's best. With a solid testing package and growing racecraft, he enters the weekend optimistic.

"Zwartkops is a track I really enjoy, and I've had some strong results here before," said Adriaan. "The format puts pressure on that final heat, but I'm confident in our prep and excited for the challenge."

The event kicks off with six practice sessions on Thursday, followed by four more on Friday and a late-afternoon qualifying session. The racing action intensifies on Saturday with two qualifying heats leading up to the decisive final race.

Adriaan is proudly supported by Greensky, Q4 Fuels, and Sparco.