KNYSNA NEWS - Precision, focus and nerves of steel are qualities expected in an operating theatre. But for one local orthopaedic surgeon, those same traits are just as vital on the tarmac of the Simola Hillclimb.

This year's edition of the iconic motorsport event delivered exactly what competitors and spectators had hoped for: perfect conditions, a vibrant atmosphere and, most importantly, a safe and incident-free weekend.

"The weather was beautiful - unseasonably warm - and the event ran without any dramas," surgeon / racer Michael Verrier told Knysna-Plett Herald in an interview. "After last year's tragedy, I think everyone needed a smooth and successful event like this."

Thousands of fans lined the course, creating an electric atmosphere as drivers tackled the demanding hill. With no major accidents and strong crowd support, the event marked a welcome return to form.

Focus
For Verrier, who has been involved in motorsport for nearly two decades, the appeal lies in the complete mental shift required.

"Motor racing is a radical departure from the seriousness of orthopaedics," he explained. "It demands total focus -100% commitment all the time. Once you're in that zone, everything else disappears."

That intense concentration mirrors the demands of his profession.

"In surgery, you cannot afford to lose focus for even a second. It's exactly the same in racing - that's the biggest overlap between the two."

Risk, safety and the human element
Despite the thrill of competition, he is acutely aware of the risks, particularly on a course like Simola.

"You have to respect the danger. I always leave a margin and don't push to the absolute limit. It's easy to forget once the visor goes down, so I constantly remind myself."

Yet, he argues that modern motorsport safety measures significantly reduce the danger. With roll cages, fire suppression systems, advanced protective gear and strict protocols, he believes racing can be safer than many recreational sports.

"If you look purely at statistics, activities like mountain biking or adventure riding can carry a higher risk of injury," he said.

Beyond the racing itself, it is the human element that stands out most. "It's the camaraderie, the friendships and the environment," he reflected. "Seeing kids' faces light up when they watch the cars - that's something special."

He also praised the behind-the-scenes teams, including marshals who travel from Gqeberha, for their dedication to safety and organisation.

Balancing act
Balancing a demanding medical career with motorsport is, he says, surprisingly manageable. With races taking place only periodically, he competes roughly once a month or six weeks without impacting his professional responsibilities.

Support from colleagues and patients has also played a key role. "I'm fortunate - people are incredibly supportive. At Simola, I get to see colleagues, patients and hospital staff cheering me on, which makes it even more meaningful."

Pursuing one's passion

His advice to other professionals is simple: pursue your passions while you can.

"We only live once. Every year that passes, we're less capable of starting something new. If you have a passion, follow it."

He speaks from experience. At 40, he took on triathlon and completed multiple Ironman Triathlon events - an achievement he now considers a closed chapter.

Looking ahead, however, his racing journey is still going strong. He plans to compete in the Cape Town Hillclimb later this year and return to Simola in 2027.

Priorities
While motorsport is a major passion, he is clear about his priorities.

"My family is everything - my wife and kids are my universe. Everything I do revolves around them."

Representing his hometown at a nationally recognised event remains a point of pride. "It's an honour to represent Knysna," he said, noting that several other local drivers - including friend Brent Watt - also compete.

He also extended thanks to his team, NVT Racing from Cape Town, for their support throughout the event.

As engines cool and the crowds disperse, it is clear that, whether in the operating theatre or behind the wheel, this Knysna professional is driven by focus, discipline and passion.

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