GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Following the successful running of the Simola Hillclimb in September this year (after three Covid-19 enforced postponements), it will return next year to its traditional time slot, the first weekend in May (6 to 8 May). The online "request for invitation" process is already open.
The closing date for applications is 31 January 2022.
Due to its popularity, the Simola Hillclimb remains an invitational event. All potential competitors can indicate their intent to enter at www.simolahillclimb.com. The organisers will evaluate the full list of applications and issue formal invitations to the successful applicants.
The Simola Hillclimb is recognised as South Africa's most unique motor sport event for the vast and diverse range of iconic cars and legendary drivers it attracts.
It has long been described as the must-attend event of the year for enthusiasts and competitors alike. Managing director of Knysna Speed Festival, owners of the event, Ian Shrosbree, says they were grateful to be able to run the event in September this year, albeit without spectators.
"Despite the challenges and some late withdrawals by competitors due to Covid infections, the field that took to the hill was spectacular. Many observers believed it to be the best-ever line up of cars in our history," he says. Covid-19 continues to challenge organisers with changing health regulations, but Shrosbee says they have proven that they can run a safe event within the regulations that are valid at the time.
They hope that by May 2022, more than 2 000 loyal fans will be allowed to attend. Sporting director Geoff Goddard says the applications are managed strictly according to organisers' criteria.
"The Hillclimb is significantly over-subscribed each year, and while we understand prospective participants' desire to participate, and their frustration if they don't make the final selection, our single most important consideration is what is best for the event as a whole," he explains.
"It's by following this principle over the years that we have been able to create the high-level experience for competitors and spectators alike that has made this event such a unique success."
The team aims to keep the show fresh, and this includes showcasing cars and drivers that have not participated before.
"Therefore, as wide a spread of applications as possible is encouraged, and every applicant is assured that they will be evaluated fairly according to the Simola Hillclimb criteria," Goddard says.
While the categories remain predominantly unchanged for 2022, they have tweaked the rules for Classic Car Friday and for H1 for pre-war cars.
For the full event regulations and more information, visit here.
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