KNYSNA NEWS - Classic car enthusiasts, automotive and motor sport fans are in for a treat when this year's Simola Hillclimb action kicks off on 3 September.
According to a Knysna Speed Festival press release issued last week, the Classic Car Friday line-up will feature a stunning array of legendary road and race cars spanning more than six decades.
A total of 30 manufacturers will be represented on the 74-strong entry list - the largest yet for Classic Car Friday.
"There simply isn't any other event on the local calendar that assembles such a fascinating and diverse range of cars that are not just put on display, but are driven with enthusiasm up the short but challenging 1,9km Simola Hill," says Simola Hillclimb sporting director, Geoff Goddard.
The driver line-up is equally impressive, with many of South Africa's top racing drivers of past and present relishing the opportunity to be part of the Simola Hillclimb.
Hillclimb regular Greig Smith's 1928 Austin Seven with its tiny 750cc engine is the oldest car in the field.
André Bezuidenhout raring and ready to go at the start line in his 1974 Porsche 911 RSR Martini. Photo: Rob Till
On the opposite end of the spectrum is a 1989 Minardi MN189. The Minardi, owned and driven by single-seater regular Ian Schofield, will compete in Classic Car Friday, and is undoubtedly set to be a top contenders for this year's Classic Conqueror crown.
The car reportedly sat untouched in a private collection since 1990, and upon being sold was disassembled and brought to South Africa where it was meticulously rebuilt.
Ian Schofield in his 1989 Minardi M189 Cosworth. Photo: Dave Ledbitter
It will be fascinating to see if Schofield will be able to match or beat the King of the Hill-winning time of 37,695 seconds set by Bezuidenhout in the Dallara in 2017, but all bets are that the current Classic Car Friday record is set to tumble. Bezuidenhout will be competing with his iconic and very quick Martini-liveried 1974 Porsche 911 RSR.
The 2021 Simola Hillclimb takes place from 3 to 5 September, starting with Classic Car Friday, followed by King of the Hill on the Saturday and Sunday. Due to Covid-19 regulations, no spectators are allowed, but the entire event will be live-streamed.
André Bezuidenhout drives his 1974 Porsche 911 RSR Martini up the Simola Hill. Photo: Rob Till
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