KARTING | De Oliveira Tops Rotax Zwartkops Regional

Bambino ace Alonzo de Oliveira extended his lead in the Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championships after clinching the overall victory at Zwartkops Kart Raceway on Saturday.

De Oliveira, who led the championship ahead of the fifth round of the regional competition, increased his points lead over his rivals following two wins and a third-place finish after starting the day from pole position.

But it was not without its challenges, as the Johannesburg driver nearly missed the qualifying session as the team frantically tried to repair a broken clutch suffered during the warm-up session earlier. Making it out onto the circuit for Qualifying, De Oliveira was forced to stop after the fuel tank came loose. After returning to the pits, the team made a few quick repairs, and the NBR Racing driver was sent back out with only a few minutes left on the clock. With time running out, he was able to clinch the pole position on the final lap of the session.

"It was a good day of racing. I was able to win two of the three heats, and I take home the winner's trophy. There are still a few races left but I am hoping we can keep this up and go all the way to clinch the title. Thank you to everyone for the support and thank you to my sponsors," said De Oliveira.

The next round is scheduled for 17 August at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit.