The 2024 motorsport calendar came to a spectacular conclusion at the Kyalami 9-Hour, an event that delivered all the hallmarks of endurance racing: fierce competition, drama, and remarkable displays of skill and perseverance. Fans were treated to a thrilling battle for the lead, record-breaking performances, and the crowning of new champions in a race that will be remembered as one of the most exciting in recent memory.
Highlights of the Event
As the final round of the South African Endurance Series, the Kyalami 9-Hour attracted top talent and fierce competition. The race culminated in a dramatic last-minute battle for victory, the establishment of a new overall lap record, and the crowning of two South African endurance champions.
From the roaring engines at the start to the tension-filled final laps, the event had it all. Among the many highlights was the triumph of Xolile Letlaka, Stuart White, and Mikaeel Pitamber, who claimed victory in their Into Africa Lamborghini Huracan GT3 and secured the 2024 overall Endurance Series title.
Victory for the Lamborghini Huracan GT3
The Lamborghini Huracan GT3 team of Letlaka, White, and Pitamber delivered a masterclass in endurance racing, combining speed, strategy, and resilience to clinch the top spot. Their victory not only marked a high point for the team but also underscored their dominance throughout the season, culminating in the coveted championship title.
Record-Breaking Performance by the Nova Team
The Adjust for Sleep Nova team, featuring drivers Nick Adcock, Michael Jensen, Charl Visser, and Jonathan Thomas, claimed second place overall. Despite narrowly missing out on victory, the team made headlines when Jonathan Thomas set a new Kyalami lap record of 1:40.303, a testament to the car’s speed and the drivers’ skill.
The Nova’s late-race penalty added a dramatic twist to the event. After crossing the finish line first, the team was handed a 20-second penalty for a minor infraction, relegating them to second place and securing the Lamborghini’s victory.
Podium Finishes and Class Wins
Third place went to the BBR Porsche 911 Cup team, driven by Hein and Henk Lategan, Verissimo Tavares, and Keagan Masters, who delivered a consistent and competitive performance throughout the race.
The Samlim Racing Trinity Lamborghini Gallardo, piloted by Sam Hammond, Damien Hammond, and Wayne Roach, finished fourth overall and claimed the Class B victory. Meanwhile, fifth place was secured by Samlin Racing’s MKT Tactical Volkswagen SupaPolo, with drivers Keegan Campos, Nathan Hammond, and Jagger Robinson earning a Class C win in what was described as a “giant-killing” performance.
Endurance and Resilience
The father-and-son duo of Harm and Barend Pretorius showcased the spirit of endurance racing with their sixth-place finish in the Team Pesty Backdraft Roadster. Despite being stuck in fifth gear for much of the race, they secured the inaugural V8 Roadster Championship and the National Index of Performance title.
Other teams also demonstrated remarkable determination. The Adapt Backdraft team faced multiple setbacks, including engine failure and a fuel tank issue, but managed to stay in the race until a late crash ended their hopes. Similarly, the Korridas Racing trio of Bruno Campos, Jaoa Martins, and Marcos Rodrigues battled persistent gearbox issues, completing the race with only third gear after losing the rest.
A Race Full of Twists
The race, which began at 13:00, saw intense competition from the outset. The Bobcat Audi R8 LMS GT3 of Charl Arangies and Arnold Neveling led for much of the race but retired after 126 laps due to alternator failure. This misfortune opened the door for a dramatic fight between the Nova and the eventual race-winning Lamborghini.
Late-race drama unfolded when a safety car was deployed with less than 10 minutes remaining, compressing the field and raising tensions. The Nova appeared poised for victory until a minor misstep led to their penalty, underscoring the unpredictability of endurance racing.
A Spectacular Finale
The Kyalami 9-Hour was more than just a race—it was a showcase of skill, determination, and the sheer unpredictability that defines motorsport. From record-breaking laps to last-minute drama, the event provided a fitting finale to the 2024 racing season.
For fans, drivers, and teams alike, the Kyalami 9-Hour will be remembered as an unforgettable celebration of endurance racing at its finest.
Related article: The 9 Hour Race Returns to Kyalami: Everything You Need To Know
