The iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is set to roar to life as the Southern African Endurance Series (SAES) gears up for its season finale on the 29th and 30th of November. The Three and Nine-Hour endurance races will be accompanied by a packed support programme, making this weekend a must-see event for motorsport enthusiasts and families alike.
A Spectacular Line-Up of Racing Excellence
Beyond the headline SAES races, fans will be treated to an electrifying array of support categories featuring 82 cars on track each day. Central to the excitement is the 37-car Single Seater Festival, showcasing a diverse lineup of South African racing machines. Competitors from Formula Volkswagen, SuperVee SA, Formula Ford, Formula GTi, and Formula Vee will battle across four high-stakes races.
The Festival also revives the thrilling North versus South challenge, a provincial showdown with eight Cape-based drivers seeking redemption after last year’s defeat. Standouts in the Formula 1600 class include seasoned competitors Renzo Ribiero and Steve Venter, while the SuperVee Championship promises nail-biting action as Jeandre Le Roux defends his slim one-point lead over Lushen Ramchander.
Adding celebrity flair, rapper Early B and TV actor Francois Jacobs will compete in the SuperVee category, alongside title contenders like Mark Tucker, who eyes a championship podium finish.
Legends and Rising Stars in Formula Vee
With a rich 59-year legacy, Formula Vee continues to captivate fans. The category sees veteran racer Peter Hills face off against his son Brandon in a generational duel. Emerging talents like Albertyn Pienaar, rookie TJ Trompie, and championship runner-up Joshua Smit will also vie for victory.
Lotus Challenge: Open-Top Thrills
Though the Lotus Challenge season has concluded, 28 cars will take to the track for this special showcase. Reigning champion Nick Hodgson will proudly wear #1, while rival Thomas Falkiner looks to claim glory in his rapid Birkin 7. The grid features intense rivalries across multiple classes, with Sean Hewitt battling a competitive field in Class B and Sean Hepburn defending his dominance in Class L.
Sports and GT Extravaganza
For fans of exotic machinery, the SA GT Super Trophy and Sports and GT categories deliver a feast for the senses. Expect to see Uli Sanne’s BMW Z4M, Jimmy Giannoccaro’s Porsche 997, and Craig Jarvis’s Ginetta G57-Chevvy prototype among the standouts. Joining them are familiar faces like Sun Moodley in his Porsche 911 GT3 Cup and Dawie Joubert in his striking Lotus Exige.
Weekend Schedule Highlights
The action kicks off on Thursday, 28th November, with practice sessions for all categories. Friday sees qualifying rounds and the first races for the Single Seaters, Lotus Challenge, and Sports and GT classes. Saturday’s packed programme wraps up with thrilling finales across all support categories, ensuring edge-of-your-seat action until the very end.
More Than Just Racing
The SA Endurance weekend isn’t just about the on-track spectacle. Visitors can enjoy a family-friendly festival featuring a 16-artist music lineup, public karting, kids’ play areas, food stalls, and a beer garden. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, spectators can bring their own gazebos, braais, and cooler boxes to enjoy the event in comfort, with big screens ensuring no one misses the action.
Secure Your Spot
Tickets are available at www.saeseries.com. Whether you’re a die-hard motorsport fan or just looking for a fun weekend outing, the Three and Nine-Hour Kyalami finale promises an unforgettable experience for all. Don’t miss the chance to witness racing history at one of South Africa’s most iconic circuits.
