TZANEEN – Tzaneen-based rally driver Peter Pilusa delivered a strong performance at the WOMZA Auto Movers Express Rally, held in Bronkhorstspruit on Saturday, May 17.

Pilusa secured second place in the 1400cc vehicle category, showcasing both skill and determination.

The event featured eight demanding stages that thrilled motorsport enthusiasts. Pilusa competed in his 1991 Nissan Sentra, which handled the course well until a rocky section in the second leg damaged the car’s left shock absorber.

Despite the setback, Pilusa and his navigator, Wesley Peulwane, pushed through and completed all eight stages.

“It was a great race, and I’m already looking forward to the next one in Valtaki, Pretoria, this June,” Pilusa told the Herald.

A veteran in the sport, Pilusa has been racing for more than 20 years. He competed under Motorsport South Africa from 2008 to 2013 before joining WOMZA in 2014, where he has raced ever since.

Pilusa expressed gratitude to WOMZA owner Kobus Groenewald for covering his race entry fee and to Hennie Smit of Midas Tzaneen, who sponsored him with lubricants. He also thanked his navigator, Wesley Peulwane, for his support.

He credits much of his success to local rally legends Eddie Simpson and Mohammed Moosa, who mentored him early in his career. Pilusa now boasts more than 170 trophies and remains confident that many more are on the way.

However, he notes that rally racing is an expensive sport and continues to seek sponsorships to help him compete at the highest level.

Outside of racing, Pilusa is passionate about training the next generation of mechanics. He runs Vision Automotive Training in the Tzaneen industrial area, where he teaches young people, especially women, the skills they need to enter the automotive industry.

“I want to see more young people, especially females, becoming skilled mechanics. It’s a career full of opportunity,” he said.