Wendywood teen racer appeals for support to make his dream of representing SA in Italy come true
Selected to represent South Africa at the Sodi World Series in Italy, 14-year-old Kiaan Mahabeer is asking the community to help him raise R200 000 to cover travel and competition costs.
At an age when most teenagers are still discovering their passions, 14-year-old Kiaan Mahabeer has already found his, and is racing full speed toward an international dream.
The Wendywood youngster, currently ranked second in South Africa in the prestigious Sodi World Series (SWS) Karting Championship, has been selected to represent the country at the global finals in Alcamo, Italy, from June 11 to 13.
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Kiaan said he started skating at the age of eight, but his passion for karting began when he first got behind the wheel.
“I started karting at the age of eight. I’ve always loved speed and competition, but my passion for karting really started when I first got behind the wheel and experienced the adrenaline of racing. I started at a young age, and from that moment, I knew this was something I wanted to pursue seriously.”
In his sporting journey, Kiaan credits his success to consistency and hard work.
“I think the biggest factor has been consistency and hard work. I’m always trying to improve, whether it’s practising on track or learning from my mistakes. Having a strong support system around me has also played a big role.”
The SWS is one of the most competitive karting championships, both locally and internationally. It brings together top drivers across multiple rounds, rewarding consistency, skill, and race performance.
For Kiaan, qualifying for the international stage is both a reward and a challenge.
“It was an incredible feeling to hear that I’ve been selected to represent SA in Italy. I was honestly so excited and proud of myself. Representing South Africa on an international stage is a huge honour, and it motivates me even more to give it my best.
“What excites me most is the opportunity to test myself against some of the best drivers in the world. It’s a chance to learn and to grow. I know the competition will be tough, and adapting to a new track and environment will be challenging, but I’m ready for it.”
Despite his talent and achievements, Kiaan faces a significant hurdle: funding his trip to Italy.
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He is currently running a back a buddy campaign, and is appealing to the community to help him raise R200 000 to cover travel, accommodation and competition costs.
“This is a dream come true, but getting there comes at a major cost for travel, accommodation and competition expenses. I’m asking for your support to help me take this next step in my journey. Every contribution, big or small, brings me closer to the start line and means the world to me. Thank you for believing in me and helping me chase this dream.”
Looking ahead, Kiaan’s goal is to be a Formula 1 driver.
“In the next five years, I see myself racing professionally and continuing to grow as a driver. I see myself being one of South Africa’s most famous racing drivers and hopefully being able to inspire others.”
To those who may want to support Kiaan and make his dream come true, click on this link: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/fuel-kiaans-karting-dream-accelerate-to-victory or contact his father on 078 124 8474.
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