In just eight years, Robyn Oelofse has built a name for herself as one of South Africa’s rising stars among Clerks of the Course. From rally stages to karting grids, her steady presence, calm leadership, and unshakable love for the sport have made her a respected figure across provinces and a mentor to the next generation of competitors.
From Rally Navigator to Course Commander
Robyn’s journey into motorsport began long before she ever wore the Clerk’s tabard. For years, she served as a rally navigator in the 00, 0, and sweep cars, the ones that ensure every stage is safe before the competitors roar through. But her shift from co-driver to Clerk of the Course came after an unforgettable moment.
“I was spectating a national rally in the Western Cape,” she recalls. “A truck entered a stage, and everyone was trying to get hold of the Clerk. Watching how that chaos was resolved sparked something in me. I wanted to be the person who helps fix things when they go wrong.”
A challenge from a sporting manager at a World RX event later sealed her fate. “He dared me to get involved in karting,” she laughs. “And I have loved it ever since.”
Race Weekends and Latte Starts
A race weekend in Robyn’s world starts early and always with coffee. “At least one grande latte before the first engine even starts,” she smiles. “At rallies, it is usually two, thanks to those early mornings.”
Her routine is a finely tuned mix of preparation and precision. “At karting, I do a track walk, greet the competitors, brief the officials and newcomers, and then it is straight into practice, qualifying, and heats,” she explains. “At rallies, it is recce, steward meetings, and checking that every official and piece of equipment is ready. No two events are ever the same, and anything can happen.”
And she loves that unpredictability. “That is what keeps me sharp. Motorsport teaches you to stay calm no matter what is thrown at you.”
Passion, People, and Purpose
Ask Robyn what keeps her coming back, and her answer comes with a grin. “The kids, even the grown-up ones.”
She is especially proud of her work in karting. “It is the relationships that make it all worthwhile. Seeing competitors grow, watching the little ones develop confidence and sportsmanship, that is the real reward. My dream is to help them climb the ranks and achieve everything they are capable of.”
She adds, “Rallying will always be family for me. I grew up around it, the early mornings, the long drives, the cold nights. It is a part of life that has always felt like home.”
The Challenges Behind the Scenes
Like many officials, Robyn admits that the toughest part of the job is the toll it takes on her time and energy. “The early mornings and late nights can be brutal,” she says. “But by the time the next event rolls around, you are ready to do it all again.”
Her proudest moments make the long hours worthwhile. “Clerking the first WPMC karting regional of 2025, with over a hundred of South Africa’s best karters, was an incredible achievement. But officiating international events like World RX and Formula E, working alongside the FIA and our amazing local officials, that is something I will always treasure.”
Inspiration and Advice for the Next Generation
Robyn credits her mentors and peers for shaping her journey. “I have had incredible mentors who have guided me and believed in me. And I am lucky to work with teams that feel like family. That is what keeps me inspired.”
Her advice for new officials is simple. “You will need a few extra layers of skin,” she laughs. “People can be emotional, but never take it personally. Learn the rules, stay calm, and do not rush the journey. Every event is a new chance to learn and grow.”
She continues with her trademark warmth. “Be so good that they cannot do it without you.”
Lessons from the Track and from Life
Through motorsport, Robyn has learned lessons that reach far beyond the track. “It has taught me patience, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to adapt when things do not go as planned, which is almost always,” she jokes.
Moments to Remember
Among her many memories, one stands out with a touch of nostalgia. “Competing alongside my late friend, Gugu Zulu, at my first national rally in Swartland. That is something I will never forget.”
And when she is not officiating? “You will probably find me in a coffee shop with my husband,” she laughs, “or in front of the television watching motorsport. Either way, there is coffee involved.”
A Family of Motorsport
For Robyn, being part of Motorsport South Africa is about more than just events. It is about belonging. “It keeps me connected to motorsport and surrounded by amazing people, officials, competitors, and organisers. We are one big, passionate family.”
Officials like Robyn are the heartbeat of South African motorsport. They are the steady hands, sharp minds, and big hearts keeping the wheels turning.
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