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.

It was in 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 on Monday.

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 Zwarkops 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 am leading two championship races and depending on the times I continue to post one could some 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 events day.

“I am gaining 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 have to count on guys in South Africa coming up as 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 former pupil who left the 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.”