Cape Town to Host Historic Lemons Nine-Hour Endurance Race

In a groundbreaking move for South African motorsport, the vibrant city of Cape Town is set to host its first-ever Lemons nine-hour endurance race. Building on the success and popularity of the events held in Johannesburg, the Lemons series is expanding its horizons to the coastal tracks of Killarney Raceway with the support of Mischief Garage in what is dubbed the Mischief Garage nine-hour race, scheduled for the 5th and 6th of July.

The series has turned heads with its unique approach to racing; cars that participate are termed "lemons," referring to vehicles priced under R55,000 – a bracket that excludes the costs for essential safety equipment. This defining rule of the competition encapsulates the series' commitment to being accessible and inclusive, making it possible for a broader range of enthusiasts to partake in the adrenaline-fueled challenges of motorsport.

The Lemons series has quickly evolved from a novel concept to a primary conduit for budding talent, becoming the largest event of its kind on the African continent. In its three-year trajectory, no less than 220 newcomers have strapped themselves in at the starting line, with 2023 being an especially poignant year as it saw the entry of the first all-female team.

A testament to its success, the series' Johannesburg episodes have already drawn a massive crowd with 76 entries in the 24-hour race alone. This surge in participation clearly demonstrates that there is a thirst for motorsport that is affordable, competitive, and carries an entertaining twist.

The person behind the helm, Mark Castel, celebrates the growth of the event, detailing how it has risen from modest beginnings to becoming an esteemed element of African motorsport culture. The debut in Cape Town is not just about pulsating races; it highlights an avenue where South African drivers can display their grit and commitment to a wider audience.

Killarney Raceway, a venue steeped in racing history, will witness a blend of endurance and dexterity as drivers navigate the twists and turns for a grueling nine hours. It's more than a competition – it's a testament to the persistence, skill, and brotherhood engrained in the racing community.

Sean O’Connel, the CEO of the event's title sponsor, Mischief Garage, points out the role of the series in fostering inclusivity. Often criticized for its elitist barriers, motorsport is gaining a fresh angle through the Lemons race initiative. Here, anyone with passion and a steering wheel can aim for the podium.

Additionally, the occasion is geared to be a festival of speed, with Dunlop Tyres, Eezi Parts, Bumblebee, and GSV (Global Specialised Vehicles) contributing sponsorship. They ensure that the event is not only a hub of racing but also of entertainment and novelty.

For race enthusiasts, and those captivated by the spirit of motorsport, the Lemons nine-hour race presents an unmissable opportunity. It's a rare instance where the essence of competition meshes seamlessly with a welcoming community sentiment.