Cathleen, racing her way to victory in the fast lane

As a regular contestant at the Oval Track, Cathleen de Jager is no stranger to speed.

For the past two years, she has proved she was a force to be reckoned with, despite competing in the male dominated world of racing,.

Recently, Cathleen competed in a national racing event held in Rustenburg.

Determined to leave her mark at event, she was disheartened when she learned the 1600 division would not be deemed as a qualifying national race.

“There has to be 12 cars in the race, and on the day there were only six cars that were able to compete,” she explained.

Racing organisers allowed the race, but classified it as a support race.

Although it wasn’t the type of race she had in mind, Cathleen did not allow this to stop her from giving it her all.

“I took third place in the race and it was a big surprise for me, as I did not expect it, especially as I raced against men.”

She said men were often more competitive and aggressive on the race track, while women were calmer.

“Women are better drivers, especially if you compare the damages to my car as to those of the male racers,” she laughed.

Pleased about clinching third position in the race, Cathleen said it was difficult, considering she had to compete against her father, Johann.

“My father has taught me a lot, showing me what to do and while I enjoyed the race, I did not like competing against him.”

Cathleen said she would be taking part in the nationals next year again, where hopefully she would be able to bring a national trophy back to Newcastle.