Gouws Motorsport works hard to get their JForce on track
Johan Gouws Jr explained that Motorsport is all about the journey, they are constantly learning, improving, and building something that will be a top competitor in Formula Vee.
Blairgowrie-based motorsport team Gouws Motorsport has made remarkable strides in fine-tuning their JForce Formula Vee race car since their last outing.
Driven by a vision to reach the podium, they returned to Zwartkops for the Formula Vee race with the car weighing just 10kg above the minimum allowed weight – a major improvement from the 35kg surplus they grappled with in June. Each step along the way has brought the team closer to unlocking the car’s full potential.
Read more: Local racer has a few hiccups at Zwartkops Raceway, but looks forward to future races
Despite the slight weight challenge, the team qualified in second place and briefly took the lead in the race, proving both the car’s potential and the effectiveness of their recent upgrades.
Driver Johan Gouws Jr said qualifying second was a breakthrough for them. “To even lead the race for a while was a glimpse of what we know this car can achieve.”
Unfortunately, an incident with another car forced an early exit, cutting short what could have been their most competitive performance yet.
“It’s tough, we had everything going for us in terms of showing the car’s potential and reaching the podium, but motorsport can be cruel. Each setback just fuels our determination to come back stronger.”
Since that race, the team has been hard at work making further refinements to the JForce. They undertook a complete chassis and halo redesign, shedding an additional 10kg from the car.
Also read: Sharonlea racer impresses at Zwartkops Top of the Hill Challenge
Johan said the focus on weight reduction was not only about making the car faster, it was also about enhancing its agility and responsiveness. “The lighter the car, the faster it accelerates, the quicker it slows down, and the better it responds through corners.”
On a personal level, he committed himself to an intensive fitness regimen, dropping 7kg to ensure he was as prepared as possible for the demands of the sport.
“Formula Vee is physically demanding, and every kilogram counts. Losing that weight has helped with my stamina and control, and it gives me the endurance I need to perform at my best throughout the race.”
As they head into their next race on November 16, the team feels more prepared. “Motorsport is unpredictable, anything can happen but with meticulous preparation and steadfast support from amazing sponsors… we’re ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.”
For more information on a JForce Formula Vee and joining the Formula Vee racing family contact johan@gouwsmotorsport.co.za or 083 378 4744.
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