Porsche car drivers from Durban descended on East London this weekend to “test out” the East London Grand Prix Circuit ahead of two lifestyle car racing events planned for July.
Event organiser Cindy Williams from Lima Events and Promotions said unlike typical racing events, a lifestyle element will be added to the events “to give it a Durban July” feel.
The first event, the Extreme Festival, will be held on July 9 and the second event, the African Endurance Series 2016, will be held on July 23 and will see fast cars such as Ferraris and Porsches race against each other.
“Instead of the horses, we will be having fast cars,” said Williams.
Speaking to the Saturday Dispatch this week, Williams said yesterday’s and today’s practice races were a build-up to the main events where members of the public would be invited to view the cars.
He said the idea was to bring fashion, entertainment and food to the racing events.
“We want people to dress up. There will be food pairing and we plan to entertain the spectators while the race is on,” said Williams.
Sun Moodley from KwaZulu-Natal’s Porsche Club, who was among the Porsche racers at the East London Grand Prix to “shake down” the dust on his Porsche, said the upcoming events were more about showcasing their hobby during these friendly races.
“We enjoy racing and we want people to come and see what we do and enjoy it with us,” he said.
Another racer from KZN, Mo Mia, who said he decided to take part in the practice race to test and understand the dynamics of the grand prix track, said the city was ideal for this kind of event.
“The East London Grand Prix is one of the top race tracks in the world. To add to that, East Londoners are the most accommodating people in the country,” said Mia.
Williams said tickets will made available as soon as the price is established.
BCM has also issued a notice of road closures during practice days. According to the metro, Princess George Circuit at the old Chester road; Potters Pass at Siduli Street and Strand Street at Wetzler Street will be closed.
Access to Water World may obtained via Potter’s Pass. — arethal@dispatch.co.za