The annual Simola Hillclimb is taking place next week already. MasterDrive is looking forward to this years’ event because not only will the team be driving the safety support cars but also entering two vehicles into King of the Hill at the Hillclimb.
In particular, one of these vehicles will be driven by an aspiring young driver from a previously disadvantaged background. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, explains: “We decided to contribute to the development of an up-and-coming driver by ensuring they have everything necessary to compete in the event. This would not have been possible without partnerships with various organisations.”
Killarney International Raceway
Des Easom and his team at Killarney Raceway played one of the most important roles in the driver search process. Their sponsorship contribution was track time, which we could not have done any of this without. It allowed the selection process, and now the coaching process to run seamlessly. The long-standing relationship between MasterDrive and Killarney Raceway aided in making this happen.
Castrol
Castrol, in partnership with MasterDrive, supported the drive to find a previously disadvantaged driver to compete in the Hillclimb. Guidance and direction from MSA also proved invaluable in this.
A purpose built 4-seater race car will be present at Simola Hillclimb, also with support from Castrol, which will undoubtedly prove to be a highlight. MasterDrive will facilitate VIP rides in the AWD monster
Dunlop
As a long-time partner, Dunlop will be supporting the initiative with ‘state-of-the art’ high-performance tyres used on the 4-seater race car.
Performance with Page
Popular social media influencer, and motoring journalist Ernest Page, donated his time and skills during the elimination rounds, as well as forming part of the coaching team. Having come out of a driver development program himself, his knowledge and experience is valued. Page also forms part of the MasterDrive training team and will have valuable insight and assist RDSA in helping the winner, Bevin Harris, navigate the Simola Hillclimb safely.
RDSA – Race Driver South Africa
RDSA specialises in the craft of driving and include not only the basics, such as race lines, braking points, apexes etc, but also focus on mind set, fitness, nutrition, car handling and setup. This includes communication with the team, race engineers and media, image, sponsorship, safety, mentorship, management and many more aspects needed to become a top motorsport athlete.
They came onboard as in integral part of the team, to ensure that the required focus is given to Harris and to ensure he navigates the hill with confidence, and most importantly safely.
Tourvest
Harris will be accommodated at The Rex Hotel by Tourvest. He will have top-class facilities at which to rest before he impresses all with his performance during the Hillclimb. Tourvest enthusiastically joined the initiative to ensure Harris has all the necessities to complete the Simola Hillclimb.
MSA
MasterDrive joined in the initiative with MSA to develop a young person from a disadvantaged background for the Simola Hillclimb. This is part of a three-year project with MSA. The first year the search for the driver will take place in the Western Cape, second year this will be opened to South Africa, and for the third year, this will be available to the African Continent.
With one week to go before Simola Hillclimb 2023 begins, all involved eagerly anticipate a successful event. “MasterDrive will spend the next few days with final training and preparation with the winner of the Driver Search before setting off to the Hillclimb. As our third time at Simola Hillclimb and our first-time entering King of the Hill, it is an exciting year for the team,” says Herbert.
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