Gearing up for a bumper 2024 event
KNYSNA - Following the super successful, internationally acclaimed 2023 Simola Hillclimb, it's once again all systems go for the 14th edition of the event scheduled from 2 to 5 May 2024. Bouncing back from the challenging past few years, the 13th edition of the Hillclimb was an unprecedented success.
For the first time there were sold-out signs up well before the event for pit, grandstand and hospitality tickets.
Attendance was a record 17 040 people over the weekend, the live-stream broadcast reached over 366 000 views and 5,5 million minutes viewed, and international engagement on social media was off the charts. International stars, former Formula One driver Mika Salo, World Rally and three-time World Rallycross champion Petter Solberg, and his brother five-time Finnish Rally champion, Henning, ensured an unprecedented fan experience for those in attendance, while also elevating the event to a much larger global audience.
Playing a huge part in this experience were the eight local car brands – referred to as Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) within the industry – who entered a variety of exciting cars, SUVs and a bakkie in the event. Some of the OEMs facilitated or brought out the international drivers.
Based on this success, organisers are expecting another record crowd of spectators and corporate guests in 2024, and an oversubscription of competitors wishing to compete.
They have added a new Modified Street Car class to the mix for 2024, which will allow owners of cars that have been slightly modified to compete among themselves, rather than against the highly modified racing saloons as they have had to do in the past. The car-tuning segment of the market
has grown considerably in the past decade and organisers feel adding this class will attract some very exciting cars to the field.
With so much interest in the Simola Hillclimb among local and international competitors and OEMs, visitors this year can expect some very exciting cars and more high profile drivers to contest the event over the next few years.
This will ensure that the on-track action is sure to be hotter and more competitive than ever.
Tickets are selling out, so book soon. For the ultimate treat, elevate your Simola Hillclimb experience with access to premium amenities, unparalleled views and VIP treatment in the Le Mans VIP Hospitality Lounge from R3 000. It includes all-day access to the pits, all-day food service, beverages and more!
Giving back
The Hillclimb has donated over R767 450 to local charities in the 14 years since its inception.
Charities that have benefitted from the
event include Knysna Animal Welfare (Kaws), the MG Car Club South Cape (that in turn passes the funds on to a selected charity), the Sedgefield and George Lions clubs, Knysna Hospice and the Knysna Sport Academy.
In July 2018, Simola participated in a planting day during the Regreen the Garden Route Festival of Action with Greenpop.
With so much of Knysna destroyed during the fires of June 2017, Simola raised funds via its competitor entries, website and social media. The funds went towards the purchase of trees that were planted during the Festival of Action.
This campaign was recognised by Motorsport South Africa who awarded the event its 2018 Environmental Award.
They also support the local Knysna community by donating excess goods to those in need, such as the Born2Care Crèche and Knysna Sport Academy.
Many charities will benefit from Simola Hillclimb 2024.
To get tickets, go to www.simolahillclimb. com