AFTER conquering local drivers in the prestigious Castrol Three-Hour Endurance Race in Bulawayo, Barons Motor Spares sponsored Darren Winterboer is now establishing himself on the South African circuit.
Winterboer won last year’s endurance race at Bulawayo’s Victoria Falls Road Course and on January 30 this year took part in his first international event.
This was the International Passion for Speed contest held in Zwartkops in Pretoria. The competition was the Extreme Super Category in which he was first in his car’s class.
“I felt proud to win my first international race. Prior to that I had never competed outside the country, it really felt great,” said Winterboer in an interview yesterday.
Winterboer drove his now all familiar BMW 335 that has become a permanent fixture in Bulawayo races.
The January 30 event was over 10 laps and he was the first driver over the crossing line.
On Saturday Winterboer was at it again in South Africa coasting to another victory.
“We drove over 10 laps and I came first overall at Bridgestone Zwartkops Raceway in the first round of the BMW CCG Club Racing Series. I again managed to win in my class and overall as well. I’m leading two championship races and if I continue improving on my times, I might one day be promoted to the highest A Class,” said Winterboer.
So far he has driven a personal best of one minute 07,4 seconds over one lap. Winterboer bemoaned lack of competition and opportunities to train back home. He said he tended to practice on racing days.
“I’m gathering exposure and experience at the same time competing for honours. It’s a challenge and there are issues to do with lack of sponsorship here. I’ve to count on guys in South Africa to be my backroom staff.
“It’s participating for the love of the game. I have passion for motor racing. There are no monetary benefits out of racing,” said the former Christian Brothers College pupil. He completed his secondary school in 1992.
Winterboer leaves Bulawayo on March 18 ahead of the March 21 competition set for Pretoria.
“I hope to do well in the next event,” he said.