Clare Vale gears up to tackle Cape Town hills

Motorsport veteran Clare Vale is set to rev engines and chase the fastest times at the inaugural Speed Classic Cape Town, a brand-new hillclimb race scheduled for October 25 and 26.

Vale (63) of Benoni, will be racing her 2013 Subaru BRZ in the highly anticipated King of the Mountain event on October 26. This category pits modern speed machines against each other on a challenging 1.8km course, with the ultimate goal of achieving the fastest time.

For Vale, the challenge is as exciting as it is unpredictable.
“This is a new event for everybody, so we don’t really know much about how the track will play out. But it’s very exciting to have something like this. We’re preparing the car, preparing ourselves and we hope to give it our best shot.”

Vale is no stranger to competitive hillclimb racing. She has been a regular at the annual Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, and her reputation as a skilled and determined racer precedes her. Beyond her driving, Vale has contributed to the sport’s growth in South Africa, serving as the past president of Motorsport South Africa’s Women in Motorsport panel. She has long championed the role of women in motorsport, encouraging more female drivers to take the wheel.

“I was always crazy about cars, but I didn’t come from a racing family, so I never raced when I was young. I started racing at 43 and I was hooked from there.
“You have to believe in yourself, especially as a woman. Many people underestimate female drivers, but if you tune your car, learn your craft, and believe in yourself, you can compete with anyone.”

Vale’s journey in motorsport has been marked by determination, hard work and the support of her family. She credits her husband as her biggest supporter, accompanying her through every race, every preparation, and every milestone.

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The Speed Classic Cape Town is an invitation-only event, making Vale’s participation even more special.
“They sent out an email inviting people to enter, and we expressed interest. We were fortunate enough to be accepted because it’s quite restricted. It’s an incredible opportunity, and we’re ready to make the most of it.”
Vale is also proud to see more women embracing motorsport.

“It’s wonderful to see more girls entering events like this. Girls aren’t scared to be ‘car girls’ anymore. That has changed a lot, and it’s great to witness. My message to all girls who love racing is simple: go for it, and do it #LikeAGirl. Believe in yourself and make your mark.”

As she heads to Cape Town, her focus is to give it all on the track, enjoy the competition, and continue inspiring the next generation of women racers. With her Subaru BRZ tuned and her spirit high, she is ready to take on the hills and chase the thrill of victory.

For Vale, racing isn’t just a sport, it’s a statement of passion, perseverance and empowerment. And at the Speed Classic Cape Town, she will once again show that age, gender, or background are no barriers when the love of racing drives you forward.

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