Raffling off old VW Golf raises R100 000 to help cheetahs

Benoni racer Clare Vale’s Black Art Racing team has had a long relationship with the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre, in De Wildt.

Since 2009, they have held an annual corporate karting day at Zwartkops in aid of the centre, and from 2009 to 2019 they have raised over R500 000 for them.

When Covid and lockdown hit in March 2020, all gatherings were cancelled, and last year they could not host a karting day.

Like most NGOs, the centre has been struggling to make ends meet, and the team had to think of something new this year to assist them.

With co-drivers Brian Martin, Morne Jurgens and Dean Hogg, the team had already entered the inaugural 24 Hours of I’Lamuna event, which took place at the end of October at Red Star Raceway.

The team raffled their elderly Mark One Golf to raise funds for the centre and named her Lily, after one cheetah at the centre.

“We did not know if the plan would be a success,” said Vale, “but I’m happy to say we have raised R100 000 for the centre, thanks to the support we received.”

The last draw for the winner took place on November 21 at the Ridgeway Race Bar in Greenstone.

Motorsport legend Roger McCleery was on hand to announce the lucky winner, Luke Webb.

“Lily is a very special car. She finished the 24 Hours of I’Lamuna in 23rd place out of 43 cars, not bad for a 35-year-old road vehicle,” said Vale.

“We know that most people bought a ticket hoping to win Lily, but in fact, the real winner is the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre. Hopefully, this contribution to their funds will help them continue the great work they do.”

Clare’s team are planning to hold another karting day next year, Covid allowing.

“So please keep an eye on social media and get your entry in early if you would like to take part,” concluded Vale.

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