Jack Moore announced his arrival on the national circuit stage with a composed and highly competitive debut in the VW Rookie Cup at Killarney International Raceway this past weekend, underlining his status as one of South Africa’s most promising young talents.
Following in the footsteps of his older brother Josh, who competed in the same championship across the 2024 and 2025 seasons, Jack’s transition from karting to circuit racing has been one closely watched within the paddock. And in Cape Town, the young Eastern Cape driver delivered on that promise.
Jack arrives in circuit racing with an already formidable karting résumé. A multiple national karting champion, he has consistently proven his pedigree against the country’s best, while also gaining valuable international exposure. His performances karting highlighted not only raw speed but also a mature racecraft beyond his years, positioning him well for the step up to tin-top racing .
Friday’s practice sessions were critical in allowing Jack to familiarise himself with the characteristics of the VW Polo Vivo GT machinery, a significant departure from the high-revving two-stroke karts. By the end of the day, Jack had already established himself within the leading group, building confidence ahead of qualifying.
Saturday morning’s qualifying session saw Jack deliver an impressive performance, securing fourth on the grid just over three-tenths off pole in an incredibly tight field. The result firmly placed him in contention from the outset.
Race 1 saw Jack convert his strong starting position into a podium finish. Navigating the intense, wheel-to-wheel nature of Rookie Cup racing, he crossed the line in third place, less than five seconds off the winner in a tightly contested eight-lap sprint. It was a measured drive that showcased both composure and tactical awareness.
In Race 2, Jack elevated his performance further. Demonstrating outright pace, he set the fastest lap of the race, while mounting a sustained challenge at the front, finishing as the runner-up in one of the closest finishes of the weekend.
Across the weekend, Jack combined speed, consistency, and maturity, hallmarks of a driver well beyond rookie status. From a front-running qualifying effort to a podium and a near-victory, his debut campaign at Killarney delivered a clear message: Jack Moore is a name to watch.
As he continues to adapt to circuit racing, the foundations laid in his karting career, coupled with his evident natural ability, suggest that his rise through the ranks of South African motorsport is only just beginning.
Next up for Jack, however, is the opening double-round of the ROK Cup South Africa Karting Championship at Red Star Raceway, where he will compete in the OK-N class.
Published by: Raymond Cornwell
Picture Caption: Jack Moore
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