Johannesburg, South Africa, 4 November 2024 – The VMS Paint 24hrs of iLamuna, held at Redstar Raceway from November 1-3, 2024, has etched itself into the annals of motorsport history. This year’s event marked a significant milestone with the participation of three extraordinary young talents—Chloe Castel (15), Elektra Skordis (15), and Kristen Auerswald (16)—who set a world record as the youngest female drivers to ever compete in a 24-hour endurance race. Their achievement not only highlights their exceptional skills but also represents a pivotal moment for female athletes and African motorsport.
From the race’s opening laps to the final checkered flag, Chloe, Elektra, and Kristen showcased remarkable determination, skill, and teamwork, captivating audiences and inspiring fellow competitors. Their journey in one of Africa’s few 24-hour endurance events serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for aspiring racers everywhere, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passion.
Introducing New Classes: OG Lemons and SL Lemons
This year’s VMS Paint 24hrs of iLamuna also saw the thrilling introduction of two new racing classes: OG Lemons and SL Lemons. Designed to foster a more competitive environment, these categories allow teams to race against similarly equipped vehicles, adding layers of excitement and accessibility to the event. The diversity in skill levels and car builds enriched the competitive spirit, making for a high-energy atmosphere that delighted fans and participants alike.
Winners of the 2024 Race
- OG Lemons Class Winner: Team Politzei 914
- SL Lemons Class Winner: Samlin Racing
- Overall Winners: Samlin Racing
- Most Legendary Team: Sax and Violins
Mark Castel, Head of the iLamuna Series, expressed pride in the young drivers’ achievements, stating, “We couldn’t be prouder of Chloe, Elektra, and Kristen for their incredible achievement. They have shown the world what’s possible through hard work, dedication, and a love for racing. Breaking this record is a testament to the future of motorsport, and we’re thrilled to see so many new, young talents joining our series. The addition of the OG and SL Lemons classes brought a new level of excitement to the race, and we’re thrilled with the competitive spirit that emerged from both classes.”
An Unforgettable Experience
The VMS Paint 24hrs of iLamuna, powered by Insurisk, Dunlop Tyres, and Havoline, delivered an unforgettable experience that drew large crowds and showcased fierce competition among a diverse lineup of cars and teams. The event was marked by a unique blend of family-friendly fun, themed cars, and the electrifying atmosphere that defines the iLamuna Series.
Event Highlights:
- Record-Breaking Youngest Female Drivers: Chloe Castel, Elektra Skordis, and Kristen Auerswald have set a world record, demonstrating that age is no barrier to talent.
- Unmatched Atmosphere: The weekend buzzed with vibrant energy, community spirit, and exhilarating racing, leaving fans and drivers with cherished memories.
- Spectacular Support: A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors VMS Paint, Insurisk, Dunlop Tyres, Havoline, and our partners First Help, Emer-G-Med, ATS, The Design Hut, Garrett, and Mr Turbo for their vital contributions to the event’s success.
The VMS Paint 24hrs of iLamuna continues to assert its place as one of Africa’s premier racing events, showcasing not only outstanding talent but also the inclusivity and opportunity that lie at the heart of the iLamuna Series. As we look to the future, we eagerly anticipate new drivers, new challenges, and new records in this exhilarating motorsport landscape.
