This weekend, the Formula-K Raceway in Benoni is set to host the seventh and penultimate round of the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championships. The event promises to be a thrilling showcase of the exceptional skills of several Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy (TGRJA) drivers as they fiercely compete for their respective class titles.
Jason Coetzee is leading by a narrow four points as he heads into the weekend, and he’s determined to maintain his impressive form this season. He’s currently at the top of the championship standings with seven heat victories and nine podium finishes. Karabo Malemela, his stablemate, is positioned third, 38 points behind. Despite not securing any wins this season, Malemela has achieved eight podium finishes, including five as the runner-up.
Former national champion Kent Swartz takes an 11-point lead into the weekend, determined to build on his five Senior MAX wins this season. Swartz has missed the podium only once this season and has consistently demonstrated his strong pace at every round, proving himself to be one of the top karters in SA.
Ranked fifth in the Junior MAX standings, Emma-Rose Dowling is determined to achieve her first victory in a fiercely contested class for ages 12-14. Despite facing challenges earlier in the year, her form improved in the latter part of the season, resulting in two runner-up finishes. Having gained international experience in Europe, she is focused on translating that experience into positive results this weekend.
Having been crowned the National Mini MAX Champion for 2024, Tshepang Shisinwana remains focused on achieving the double but needs to make up a 23-point deficit to the leader. To do so, he must add to his five victories and six podiums this season and rely on the form that saw him claim national honours a few weeks ago.
The action begins with a Warm-Up Session, followed by Qualifying before three race heats to determine the day’s winner.
Published by: Motorsport Fanatix
Picture Caption: Emma Rose Dowling
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