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Formula M: 50 years in SA

TJAART JOUBERT, chairman of the South African Formula M Racing Club, is calling on former members and fans as the club celebrates its 50th year in motorsport. Not familiar with the sport? Watch Formula M racing action at Zwartkops!

Here's what he had to say...

Formula M racing is a racing series that uses single-seater race cars powered by motorcycle engines. The club started in 1963 originally called the Micro Midgets. We then changed our name to the South African Formula M Racing Club.

Video: Formula 1 action at the Zwartkops raceway

The main objective of the club is to promote motorsport to youngsters.
 
We have four classes in the club:
 
CLASS D

Class D racing is the development class for kids aged from 8 – 13-years-old.The car is powered by a 125cc motorcycle (two stroke) or a 250cc (four stroke). The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission and cars can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h.

SET TO COMPETE IN 2014

The motor must remain standard and no modifications are allowed. At this stage we are training youngsters and do not race them. We are positive that we will be racing in the 2014 season.
 
CLASS C

Primarily this class is for high-school teens aged 13-years-old and older. The cars used in this class run on racing slick tyres and are powered by a 400cc motorcycle engine mated to six-speed transmission. Top speed is in the region of 180km/h. This is a controlled class and no modifications are allowed.
 
CLASS B

This is the main class in Formula M with driver ages from 15-years-old and older. The cars are powered by a 600cc motorcycle engine and can reach speeds of 200km/h.

'TOP SPEEDS CAN BE AS HIGH AS 290KM/H'

 
CLASS A

Here we have the big bangers of formula M and the cars are powered by fast motorcycle engines with the Hyabusha motors being the popular choice. Top speeds can be as high as 290km/h depending on vehicle setup and driver ability.
 
The South African Formula M Racing Club will be hosting its 50th anniversary function at the end of November 2013 and are searching for "old" members and supporters/pit crew from 1963 to 2013.

Members can email Marthie.
 
To find out more about Formula M check out the club's website or visit its Facebook page. If you’re looking to involve your child in Formula M, take a look at the club’s Class D group on Facebook.

 

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