World Model Race competitor not scared of competiton
Hendrik Badenhorst aims to earn the top spot in this years World Model Race Championships.
POLOKWANE – Badenhorst has been participating in Model Race events for ten years now and says he ranked 12th guided by the points he accumulated during the World Model Race championships.
In 2009 he competed against other drivers from around the world in the off-road two-wheel drive modified category. According to him the competition was not a walk in the park but he learned a lot which, he believes, will make it easy for him to win the competition if given another chance. “It was my first time competing in the World Competition and yet I managed to claim 12th position.”
“There is a thin line between real race cars and model race cars,” Badenhorst points out. He says the operator is allowed to buy car parts such as tyres and shocks to modify their cars. Tyre choice and car setup are the major factors, as every event has a different track surface and the cars will have to be adjusted accordingly to excel.
“I want to try my luck abroad but I have to raise about R100 000 for travel and accommodation costs.
“I have started with local competitions to polish my skills before I enter bigger tournaments. I haven’t been active in the sport for some time now but I will push myself harder to get to the top again,” he said.
He added that the sport needs people who are patient and knows how to control their cars. Also, drivers should familiarise themselves with the track before the competition to avoid disappointments.
Badenhorst advises young people to stay motivated and not be afraid of competition. Stating that nothing in life comes easy, to keep your head held high and always do your best.
