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Benoni teen heads to Spain for Red Bull Rookie Cup

Benoni - Savannah Woodward is a name that has made waves in South African motorcycle racing scene in 2016.

The 15-year-old from Benoni is already setting the 600cc class alight in both South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Monroe Racing South Africa has announced the next big opportunity awaiting it star-rider; Woodward is set to depart to Spain to compete in the Red Bull Rookie Cup trials in October.

Series of tests

These trials will take place from Oct 17-20 and riders will be judged on a host of aspects including riding ability, personal presentation and commitment to the sport. Woodward will be joined by a host of promising riders selected from around the globe for this event.

Woodward is the first South African female to be selected for this competition and given her career to date, it’s not difficult to see why. At the tender age of five, she was introduced to motorcycling when her dad bought her first off-road bike. Two years later she started competing in junior championships and worked her way up through the ranks. She is currently competing in the Inland Championship. 
Savannah Woodward on track.

                                                      Image: Reynard Gelderblom

She said: “This is an amazing honour for me. I’m eager to showcase my absolute best form at the trials and I’m aiming to pass and be selected to compete in 2017. I can’t wait to show them what a South African girl can do.

"I’d also like to introduce them to the person behind the helmet – in any form of motorsport that’s a big aspect to advance your career. You have to be a marketable personality. I’d like to thank Monroe Racing SA for everything I’ve learned through the year and I’m looking forward to validate your support as well as that of South Africa through my performance in Spain.”

The Red Bull Rookie Cup is not a new event for South African riders. A few years ago this competition was the start of international glory for both Brad Binder and his brother Darren. Since then the duo has moved into Moto3 – a feeder series for the prestigious MotoGP championship.

READ: SA's Brad Binder edges closer to 2016 Moto3 championship

At present Brad is leading the 2016 championship with Darren also displaying great form. Both riders are still very much involved with Red Bull.

Woodward will be aiming to emulate her compatriots – quite possibly we could soon see this young woman also becoming a household name on the global stage.

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