The 14th Simola Hillclimb, held in Knysna, South Africa from May 3rd to 5th, 2024, showcased thrilling racing action across various categories. Robert Wolk clinched the King of the Hill title in the Single Seater, Sports Car, and Sports Prototypes category, while Dawie Joubert emerged victorious in the Modified Saloon Car division for the first time.
JP van der Walt continued his dominance in the Road Car and Supercar category, securing his fourth consecutive title. Exciting battles unfolded, including Joubert's triumph in a lightweight Lotus Exige powered by a twin-turbocharged Ferrari 488 engine, and van der Walt's record-setting performance in a Porsche 911 Turbo S. The event attracted a record number of spectators and online viewers worldwide, reaffirming its status as a premier motorsport spectacle.
Classic Car Friday
On Friday at the Simola Hillclimb, the focus was on the Classic Car category, featuring vintage vehicles from different eras.
This included iconic cars like Franco Scribante's 1970 Chevron B19 and Andre Bezuidenhout's 1976 Lola T460.
The day saw intense competition as drivers vied for the Classic Conqueror title.
Franco Scribante clinched his seventh Classic Conqueror title at the fiercely contested Classic Car Friday event of the 2024 Simola Hillclimb, marking another historic achievement in his illustrious career.
Scribante, piloting his 1970 Chevron B19, dominated the day's sessions, maintaining an edge over his competitors. Despite a close challenge from reigning champion Andre Bezuidenhout, Scribante's consistency throughout practice, qualifying, and the Class Finals secured him the win.
Bezuidenhout's hopes for a title defense were dashed during the decisive Top 10 Shootout due to gearbox issues with his 1976 Lola T460. This setback allowed Charles Arton to claim second place overall with his 1979 March 79A.
Notably, Rui Campos made history by securing third place in his 1974 Porsche 911 RSR, becoming the first tin-top car to stand on the Classic Conqueror podium.
Other highlights included James Temple's fourth-place finish in a 1965 Shelby Daytona Coupe and Robert Wolk's fifth-place performance in a 1979 Van Diemen RF Formula Ford.
The event also saw impressive performances across various classes, with standout victories from drivers like Jandre Bezuidenhout in the 1985 Porsche 944 Turbo Cup and Callum Price in a 1946 Austin Special.
In recognition of his dedication to motorsport, Farouk Dangor received the prestigious 'Spirit of Dave Charlton' award for his contributions to South African racing culture.
Here is the live stream of the day
Some beautiful pictures posted on Facebook
Pictures provided by motorpress.co.za
