Like a gale-force wind, the fourth round of the National Extreme Festival blows into town with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing SA GR Cup, which is the highlight of the weekend.
The 2024 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing SA GR Cup is ready to gust into another thrilling weekend as Round 4 sweeps through the Aldo Scribante Raceway in Gqeberha. As the season gathers speed and force, championship contenders aim to solidify their standings while a new contender breezes into the mix.
Sean Nurse (AutoTrader) has been like a gale, dominating the GR Cup Media Challenge standings throughout the season. He will be joined by a strong current of competitors: Alex Shahini (CAR), Jaco van der Merwe (Citizen), Hannes Visser (La’t Wiel), Kumbi Mtshakazi (Kumbi-M on Cars), and Bernie Hellberg (Driven).
Adding an extra gust of excitement, John Thomson, Toyota SA Motors’ Vice-President for Future Toyota, will make his GR Corolla debut in the GR Cup Media Challenge as a guest driver, having previously competed in the GR Yaris. His presence is sure to stir the competition.
The Aldo Scribante Raceway, known for its technical twists and turns, resembles a dynamic wind pattern. Located in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), this track offers a mix of tight corners and fast straights, much like the sudden shifts of a strong breeze, providing ample opportunities for overtaking. The track’s well-maintained surface and challenging sections will test driver skill and car setup, akin to navigating gusty conditions.
The weather forecast for the weekend predicts cool but dry conditions, ideal for racing. Friday’s practice sessions will allow drivers to get a feel for the circuit, akin to a gentle breeze testing its path, with qualifying and two race heats scheduled for Saturday.
GR CUP DEALER CHALLENGE
In the GR Cup Dealer Challenge, the competition will be as fierce as battling crosswinds among top Toyota dealerships. Drivers from GR Driving Academy, Motus Toyota, NMI Toyota Menlyn, Rustenburg Toyota, and Rola Toyota will clash in the GR Yaris, each striving to ride the currents to victory.
DEVELOPING SKILLS
The GR86 Development Academy continues to be a nurturing ground for emerging talent, like a steady wind fostering growth. Dawie van der Merwe leads the standings, with Setshaba Mashigo, Ryan Naicker, Niko Zafiris, Dylan Pragji, and Kent Swartz eager to make their mark.
LAST WORD
The GR Cup at Aldo Scribante Raceway promises to be an unforgettable weekend of racing. With ideal weather conditions, a challenging circuit, and a competitive field, fans can look forward to exhilarating action and intense battles. Stay tuned for updates, race highlights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content on the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa website and social media channels.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © TOYOTA GAZOO RACING SOUTH AFRICA
