The Simola Hill Climb is back in action and now more prominent than ever!

For those who may not be familiar, the Simola Hillclimb is an annual racing event hosted in Knysna and features various cars and drivers competing to set the fastest time up an uphill 1.9-kilometre stretch of road. Now in its 13th year, the event, which will run from the 4th - 7th of May, has grown in popularity and prestige, with this year's lineup of drivers and cars looking to make their mark.

Petter Solberg's Simola Hillclimb debut with Volkswagen's Polo R WRX Supercar

Image Source: Lowvelder.co.za

Looking forward to a brighter future without any lockdown restrictions, this year, all eyes will be on Petter Solberg and Volkswagen's Super Polo WRX. Solberg's pedigree includes a World Rally Champion title and two World Rallycross Championships. His partnership with Volkswagen began in 2017 when he set up the PSRX Volkswagen Sweden team in partnership with Volkswagen Motorsport.

He went on to win the Team's Championship in 2017 and 2018 before retiring from full-time racing. Now, he's back to race for Volkswagen in South Africa, and fans are eager to see what he can do behind the wheel of the Polo R WRX Supercar. With two driver's titles and two FIA World Championship wins, the Polo R WRX Supercar is arguably the most successful racing machine of the modern Rallycross era, and Solberg is sure to put it through its paces.

Competitor entries for 2023

The Single Seater and Sports Prototypes category is where you'll find the fastest cars at the Simola Hillclimb's 1.9 km track. Andre Bezuidenhout has won this category for the past five events, starting in 2017 with his 1989 Dallara F189 Formula One car. 2022 saw him set a record-winning time of 34.161 seconds at a track average speed of 200 km.

Other notable drivers include Jonathan Mogotsi and Daniel Rowe, who will be driving Golf 8 Rs, and Graeme Nathan, who will be driving a Polo SupaCup car. Andre Bezuidenhout, the current King of the Hill for six years running, will also be making a return. There are rumours that additional international driver will also be making an appearance this year, so keep following the Simola Hillclimb socials to find out more...

COVID-19 Impact and Success of Previous Events

Of course, it wouldn't be a 2023 event without acknowledging the impact of COVID-19 on the previous years. Despite the challenges, the 2022 Simola Hillclimb was a success, with increased safety measures in place to ensure the health and well-being of all involved. It was a reminder of the resilience and determination of the motorsport community in the face of adversity.

Image Source: Facebook/SimolaHillClimb

As for the Simola Hillclimb, the event has continued to improve and grow over the years. From its humble beginnings in 2009, it has become a highlight of the South African motorsport calendar, drawing crowds of fans and enthusiasts alike. The organisers have consistently made a conscious effort to incorporate new features and attractions, such as a dedicated Fan Fest where fans can get up close and personal with some cars and drivers, as well as enjoy a few simulation racing games.

Last year's on-track highlights included a thrilling battle between Franco Scribante - reigning Modified Saloon Car champion - and Wilhelm Baard, with Scribante coming out on top. With this year's lineup of drivers and cars, there will surely be plenty of exciting moments to look forward to.

Expectations for the 2023 Simola Hillclimb

Image Source: Carmagazine.co.za

The upcoming Simola Hillclimb is set to witness fierce competition among some of the most renowned motorsports stars. The competition's most decorated driver, Andre Bezuidenhout, returns to defend his crown in the Single Seater and Sports Prototypes category. Bezuidenhout, who holds the event's outright record, is looking to secure his sixth King of the Hill title and is rumoured to aim for a sub-34 second time.

Robert Wolk, who drove a modernised 1989 Pillbeam MP58, remains Bezuidenhout's closest competitor, powered by a thunderous Infinity IndyCar engine. Other talented drivers, including Devin Robertson, Byron Mitchell, Andrew Rackstraw, and Rui Campos, are also set to compete, resuming their intense battle for a spot on the Top 10 Shootout podium.

The Top 10 Shootout podium will be equally intense as the main event, with talented drivers vying for a spot. Fans can expect some exhilarating performances, record-breaking times and be treated to the celebrity presence of world-class drivers as they compete on the Hillclimb's most daring and challenging courses.

Visit their official website for more information: https://www.speedfestival.co.za/. There are still a limited number of Pit Access tickets available, as well as a number of Turn 2 Access tickets offering phenomenal views.

Read our previous article here

Contact one of our offices below; we look forward to hearing from you:
Gauteng: 011 463 0155
Cape Town: 021 418 0328
Garden Route: 044 050 3295
Eastern Cape: 076 927 7787
Winelands: 021 863 0551
Mauritius: +230 5723 0369
Email: reception@hamiltons.co.za

Hamilton's Property Portfolio holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority.