Sixteen-year-old Jayden Goosen announced his arrival in spectacular style during his debut weekend in the ATE Brakes-sponsored VW Challenge. Jayden competed in the top-tier Class A category at Zwartkops Raceway on Saturday. Driving the striking Ferro Energia / AA Certified Pre-Owned Cars-backed VW Polo, the former INEX Legends Champion showcased his raw talent and unwavering determination while representing the championship-winning Lee Thompson Racing stable.
Jayden made an immediate impact on Saturday morning by topping the qualifying sheets. However, his joy was short-lived as a technical infringement saw him demoted to the back of the class grid. Officials ruled his car underweight on the scales, excluding him from the session. Despite the setback, the young motorsport prodigy remained undeterred, channelling his disappointment into two extraordinary race performances.
Jayden delivered a mature and fearless drive in both races, battling wheel-to-wheel with one of the series’ most experienced competitors, Wayne Masters. Wayne, a stalwart of the ATE VW Challenge who has been racing since before Jayden was born, was locked in a thrilling duel with the teenage sensation. With precision and composure beyond his years, Jayden edged out Masters in both races, firmly establishing himself as a contender to watch. Adding further gloss to his debut, Jayden recorded the fastest lap of the day with a blistering effort in Race 1.
Wayne was gracious in defeat, praising Jayden’s skill and racecraft after the final race. An elated Jayden capped off a remarkable weekend by claiming the overall Class A victory, leaving the opening round as the championship leader.
Reflecting on his debut, Jayden shared his excitement and gratitude: “Racing in the ATE VW Challenge against some of the best drivers in the country is a dream come true. Battling with legends like Wayne Masters was an incredible experience, and to come out on top in both races is something I’ll never forget. I’m grateful to my team at Lee Thompson Racing for giving me a phenomenal car and to my sponsors Ferro Energia, AA Certified Pre-Owned Cars, OMP Racing, N4 Autocraft, and Origin Oil, for making this journey possible. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait for what lies ahead.”
Jayden’s next challenge will see him debut his Ferro Energia VW Polo at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in April as part of a combined national and regional tour. Although he has twice competed at the Johannesburg circuit, those outings came in less-powered cars. With his blistering pace and unyielding determination, Jayden has already made it clear that he is a force to be reckoned with in the 2025 ATE VW Challenge season.
Published by: Motorsport Fanatix
Picture Caption: Jayden Goosen
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