Bakkie driver's bravado leads to crash

Update

GEORGE NEWS - Another alleged illegal drag race in Fabriek Street in George's industrial area on Sunday night, 25 May, ended in a crash, fuelling public frustration and social media mayhem.

As far as George Herald could confirm, no serious injuries were reported, but from what can be seen from the videos, some bystanders, as well as the driver, had a close shave - too close for comfort.

Various videos sent to the newspaper show a white Toyota bakkie landing on its roof during a horribly failed doughnut attempt. Several bystanders reportedly helped flip the vehicle upright before dispersing.

By the time emergency services arrived, the vehicle, driver and bystanders were nowhere to be found.

This incident follows a similar crash in February when a BMW ploughed through Silencer & CV Joint's workshop after the driver had lost control during a race. He hit a lamp pole, smashed through a gate and landed partially inside the building.
Despite alleged repeated races and ongoing complaints from residents and business owners, drag racing in the area continues almost every Sunday night.

There seemed to be a brief lull after February's crash, but the tendency appears to be picking up again.
George Municipality said the incident was brought to their attention. "Response officers were dispatched, but upon arrival, the individuals involved had already removed their vehicles from the scene," says the acting director of community safety, Lee-Anne Meiring.

The incident happened in Fabriek Street in the industrial area. This is a popular street for illegal drag races.

She added that they continue to work in close collaboration with the police, as this is not a matter that falls solely under the jurisdiction of municipal law enforcement. "It requires a co-ordinated approach from all relevant agencies."

However, according to a motorsport fanatic who spoke to George Herald on condition of anonymity, contrary to popular belief, they are not practising drag racing or so-called street racing in the area anymore.

Speaking to the newspaper after the accident, he said the bakkie driver was not part of their usual crowd. "He wasn't one of us. He just rocked up, seemed drunk, and started pulling stunts. We don't even race there anymore, we are like-minded people who just gather socially on Sundays and chill."

But the question remains, are the authorities planning on taking any action against these so-called gatherings?

In February, another racer said illegal racing wasn't their choice. It was their only option. According to him, the group had previously negotiated with the municipality, submitted proposals and met requirements, only to be rejected without explanation. "We're not asking for a free track, just access to land at a fair cost.

"Motorsport generates a lot of money, and George can only benefit from it. We just need a place where we can legally practise our sport," he said.

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The area in Fabriek Street where the incident took place. Note the tyre marks on the tar. Photo: Kristy Kolberg