Local racer wishes residents happy holidays
Sharonlea semi-professional racing driver Michael Kernick wishes residents happy holidays.
After closing the year with a big win and being crowned Historic Single Seater Association (HSSA) champion, semi-professional racing driver Michael Kernick reflected on his season.
The Sharonlea-based racer said one of the highlights was competing in the same category as his father, Allan.
Read more: Sharonlea based racer cant finish race 2 as Nash MVW3 catches fire
Another standout moment for him was racing a Backdraft Cobra in the 4-hour endurance event at Dezzi Raceway. “I always enjoy doing an endurance race. I managed to put together the funds to make it happen. It was nice to race the Backdraft roadster and have them running the pits. I learned the car and track quickly and fought for a podium. It was awesome, and the car was nice to drive and fast.”
Kernick capped off the year by winning the HSSA championship, which he described as one of the toughest titles to claim in South Africa. Adding to the significance of the victory was the fact that he raced in his grandfather’s old Capital, a historic Formula Vee car. “It was special, as the Capital and I have won every single race we have been in this year.
“I got pole in every single qualifying session and fastest race lap in every race we have been in, and added to this was a new lap record, so the car and I were super dominant this year.”
Beyond his championship success, Kernick also tested the first Ginette Junior for the ROK Cup in South Africa, and saw growth in his YouTube channel, where he shares videos documenting racing history.
Also read: Disappointing Silvercup 2.0 race for Michael Kernick as Nash catches fire
Despite the achievements, Kernick admitted the year was not without challenges.
He missed opportunities to race for certain teams and struggled to secure the budget needed for bigger events. “I had to step back from racing in some events due to not having the finances, which was a big blow.”
As the year ends, Kernick extended his well wishes to the community. “A Christmas wish for me is to be in a better position next year and to be able to make more opportunities possible.”
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