All eyes will be on Junior MAX sensation Caleb Odendaal this weekend as the 2025 South African Rotax MAX Challenge (SARMC) and Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championship converge for a double-header showdown at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit.
The 12-year-old East London native has already made a powerful impression in both championships this season. He kicked off his regional campaign with a commanding overall win at Formula-K Raceway, and despite facing adversity at the national opener in Cape Town, he left Killarney with pole position and a top-four finish to his name.
Now, Caleb heads to Vereeniging with a point to prove. Armed with momentum and bolstered by the backing of Legend Motors and Kart Republic Africa, the three-time national champion will be gunning for a clean sweep in Gauteng. His familiarity with Vereeniging’s technical challenges, his relentless work ethic, and elite racecraft make him a clear favourite heading into Round 2.
“The first round gave us confidence, but this is a new weekend, a new challenge,” says Caleb. “We’ve been putting in the work, and the aim is simple: win races, score big points, and stay ahead in both championships.”
However, Caleb’s focus will be split as the weekend carries dual championship weight. The event counts toward both the national SARMC series and the regional Northern Regions standings, meaning every lap completed and position gained could play a decisive role in his pursuit of a Junior MAX double crown.
While rivals will be eager to close the gap, Caleb’s blend of raw speed, strategic maturity, and national-level experience gives him a clear edge. He’ll need to stay sharp, with the twisty Vereeniging layout demanding maximum precision and composure from all drivers.
Several practice sessions will get underway on Thursday (unofficial) and Friday ahead of Qualifying later in the afternoon; three heats will take place on Saturday, where Caleb will look to solidify his regional lead while reigniting his national title charge. With the season beginning to take shape, this could be a pivotal weekend in his 2025 karting campaign.
Caleb is backed by Legend Motors and Kart Republic Africa.
Published by: Motorsport Fanatix
Picture Caption: Caleb Odendaal
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