27 May WAYNE TAUGHT A LESSON

Late in May I was fortunate to be able to spend a day with Pablo Clark Racing at the Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria. The team offers individuals the opportunity to take to the track in a Ferrari 360 Challenge after receiving pointers on how to drive this race-spec supercar correctly and, most importantly, safely while having a little fun at the same time. On hand to offer instruction and a few hot laps are the father and son team of Ian and Jaki Scheckter.

Pablo Clark Racing puts on a great driving experience that includes full hospitality, briefings, helmets and race overalls etc. After filling out the mandatory indemnity forms and attending a short but expert briefing, it’s into your Nomex race suit and on with the helmet just like the professionals. (One is entitled to let one’s imagination go a little on a day like this…) I was thrilled to get my driving instruction from South African racing legend and national champion Ian Scheckter, and what an adrenaline rush it was to be taught how to drive this very capable race car quickly.

Well, that’s what I thought at the time. However, after a later hot lap outing with Jaki in a Ferrari F430 GT3, my bubble was properly burst as he drove this car like a demon and I quickly realised that being a professional racing driver demands bucket loads of practice coupled with a rare and special natural talent. Nevertheless, it was a fantastic day and one I will always remember. Well done and thank you, PCR! WH