Lip gloss and racing, all in a day’s work

Armed with lipgloss and a crash helmet, Zaakira Khan is determined to roar to success in her 1600 racing car.

As proof of this, she was nominated as Most Improved Driver and Club Champion in the women’s division at the Oval Track’s recent prize giving.

Both trophies symbolised Zaakira’s passion for motor vehicle racing and the effort she put into it behind the scenes.

“It’s amazing to have won two trophies, as it shows my hard work and dedication has paid off. Also, I have only been racing since March last year, and taking two trophies in my first prize giving is a huge achievement,” she said.

Next on her sights on the road to victory are the national and regional championships.

“I would like to take my racing a step further, as soon as I get more experience and go to higher divisions.”

Zaakira explained her achievements would not have been possible without her husband’s contribution.

“My husband, Shaukat, started in 2014 and by watching him participate, I developed a love for the Oval Track and racing. When the women’s division opened, I signed up immediately.”

Embarking on her Oval Track career, Zaakira quickly learned that racing was more than merely speeding around the track.

“I have learned so much about cars and racing, and it would have not been possible without my husband, fans and friends. I must also thank Timmy Govender who has been a mentor to me and my sponsor, Dr Ahmed Jamalodeen.”

As she and her husband are both keen racers on the Oval Track, she has high hopes of creating a family legacy.

“My son, Uzair is four years old, and he is a car fanatic. Shaukat and I would really like to see him following in our steps,” she concluded.