Celebrating the Women of Motorsport, On and Off the Track
Motorsport takes a powerful turn this Women’s Day as Formula Monoposto, in partnership with Zwartkops Raceway and under the auspices of Motorsport South Africa, hosts an all-ladies race at Zwartkops Raceway on Saturday, 9 August 2025.
This special event celebrates the fierce, fearless and fabulous women who contribute to motorsport, whether they are working behind the scenes or competing behind the wheel. With an expected grid of 15 to 20 drivers, the race is open to any woman who holds a valid competition licence issued by Motorsport South Africa and is able to compete in a vehicle that complies with Formula Monoposto regulations and meets national motorsport safety standards.
While the race promises close competition and plenty of enjoyment, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the many South African women who have made their mark in motorsport, both locally and internationally.
Desiré Wilson, one of only five women to compete in Formula One, remains a true motorsport icon. Alongside her, names such as Glenda Mann, Judy Witter, and Clare Vale – often referred to as the First Lady of Racing – immediately come to mind.
And there are many more: Jackie Parrot, Pat Sonnenschein, Helen van Diemen, Paige Lindenberg, Fabienne Lanz, Hellen Griffiths, Cindi Harding, Evelyn Coetzee, Cindy Evans, Felicity Schmidts, Peta Lee, Kim Cilliers, Tannith Gardner, Beverly Gardner, Tasmin Pepper, and Andrea Bates, all of whom have made valuable contributions to motorsport in South Africa.
Among them, the late Kim Cilliers stands out as an inspiring example of perseverance. Kim was an organ transplant recipient and a firm believer in doing things by the book. She overcame numerous obstacles to become a legally licensed racing driver and never lost sight of her femininity or competitive spirit.
Photographs from 23 September 2006 show Kim proudly competing in her Formula GTI – a reminder of her passion and determination.
In 2025, Formula Libre Gauteng launched the first officially recognised Club championship for women drivers under Motorsport South Africa. This dedicated championship runs alongside the regular Formula Libre series and has generated significant interest, with plans already underway to expand participation in 2026.
Returning to the upcoming race on 9 August, the grid will feature an exciting mix of regular competitors from the Formula Libre series, seasoned professionals from other categories, and newcomers to the sport. This will be more than just a race. It will be a vibrant celebration of women in motorsport – their passion, their achievements and their future.
Whether you are a lifelong enthusiast, a family member, or someone discovering the world of motorsport for the first time, Zwartkops Raceway is the place to be this Women’s Day.
Join us at the circuit and be part of honouring the women who are driving South African motorsport forward.