Living life on the edge
Most would think only men would have the guts to take part in motorsport, but female drivers have taken to the track by storm.
NEWCASTLE – Accelerating into clouds of dust, skidding around bends, swiftly shifting gears and hoping not to crash are just some of the thrills that get adrenaline pumping through the veins of oval track racers.
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Most would think only men would have the guts to take part in motorsport, but female drivers have taken to the track by storm.
Shandeera Govender is one of these courageous women. She has been an oval track racer since September last year.
“My husband used to race and then he gave it up, so we decided that it’s my turn,” explained Shandeera.
The Govenders have been involved in racing for 12 years and when a ladies class opened, Shandeera jumped at the opportunity to get behind the wheel and experience the thrill.
Shandeera drives a Volkswagen Golf 1 and currently races in the 1600-litre ladies’ and men’s divisions.
“That feeling I get when racing is awesome. I have no other words to explain it and my only regret is that I didn’t start earlier,” said Shandeera.
In August this year, she crashed into a barrier during her last lap, but that didn’t stop this fearless racer from zooming back onto the dirt.
Shandeera’s husband, Timmy Govender, is extremely supportive and described her as affectionate.
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“My wife is a fun and loving person who enjoys socialising and spending quality time with family and friends. She has always been a speedster.”
“I have always enjoyed motor sport and speed. My husband, family and friends have always been my motivation,” said Shandeera.
Her advice to anyone who wants to start oval track racing is simply, “just get into a car, go out there and have fun!”
