The South African motorsport community is deeply saddened by the passing of former South African Race Driving Champion, Bernard Tilanus, who passed away on February 2nd in Maumee, Ohio, following a courageous battle with cancer.
A Legacy on the Track
Bernard was a cornerstone of South African single-seater racing. His ascent began in earnest in 1976 when he secured the South African Formula Ford Championship. This victory earned him the prestigious “Driver to Europe” scholarship, which was the same path taken by F1 World Champion Jody Scheckter.
While family commitments kept him in South Africa, Bernard became a titan of the Formula Atlantic series. His career statistics in the category are a testament to his consistency and speed:
- 1981: South African Driver’s Champion.
- Championship Podiums: Two 2nd place and two 3rd place overall season finishes.
After a brief stint in Group N and an initial retirement in 1988, the competitive fire drew him back. In a remarkable display of longevity, Bernard returned to race Shelby Can-Ams where, at the age of 57, he outpaced a field of younger drivers to claim the 2002 South African title.
Beyond the Cockpit
Off the track, Bernard was a skilled businessman and a devoted family man. A Dental Technician by foundation who transitioned into successful business ventures, he eventually emigrated to the United States to be near his daughters.
His impact on the sport was best measured by the respect of his rivals. From his Formula Ford battles with Andrew Thompson to the “Thinking of You Bernard” decals recently run by Wayne Taylor Racing in the USA, it is clear Bernard was as respected in the paddock as he was feared on the starting grid.
He is survived by his wife Jean, with whom he recently celebrated a joint 80th birthday milestone, his daughters Candy and Samantha, and his extended family.
