The Cape Classic hill climb event has made its return to Cape Town, marking the first time the city has hosted such a competition since the 1960s. This unique motorsport event features timed runs up a hill in sports cars, spanning multiple decades. The Speed Classic event took place on Philip Kgosana Drive, a public road that was temporarily closed for the occasion.
The event was divided into two days, with the first day dedicated to classic cars, defined as vehicles older than 2001. One of the notable participants was a 1970 B19 Chevron, one of only 35 built, which was once owned by racing driver Stirling Moss. Franco Scribante, the current owner, emphasized the thrill of hill climb events, stating that it’s a different kind of racing that requires precision and focus.
The oldest vehicle participating in the event was a 1930 Le Mans Bentley, driven by Harry Tayler. Despite its age, the vehicle is still capable of reaching speeds of up to 127 miles per hour. Tayler believes that the car was made to be driven and raced, and that it should not be relegated to a museum.
The history of hill climbing in Cape Town dates back to the inter-war economic downturn, when it was a popular and affordable form of motorsport. According to motoring journalist Michele Lupini, hill climbing was an attractive option during difficult economic times, as it required minimal infrastructure and investment.
The reintroduction of the hill climb event in Cape Town is a testament to the enduring popularity of this motorsport niche. Event director Garth Mackintosh described the event as “exciting, visceral, and extremely thrilling.” The event featured over 150 participating vehicles, including modern cars like the Ferrari 488 GTB and modified vehicles like the Lotari, a Lotus with a Ferrari engine.
The winner of the King of the Hill title was Franco Scribante, who completed the course in 35.26 seconds in a modified Nissan GTR R35. Organizers hope to make the Cape Classic hill climb event an annual fixture in the city, showcasing the unique thrill of this motorsport discipline. With its rich history and exciting competition, the event is poised to become a major attraction for motorsport enthusiasts in South Africa and beyond.