From the start of the second round of the National ROK Cup Kart Championships at the Vereeniging Raceway held this past weekend, a new contender for the top OKN honours began to emerge. Brandon van der Walt, a promising talent steadily improving since joining WORR Motorsport, showcased his potential by recording a double podium and placing fifth overall for the day.
The Pretoria East teenager qualified an impressive second on Saturday morning before claiming the runner-up spot behind his internationally experienced teammate, who was made to fend off Brandon’s challenge on the final lap, denying him a maiden victory.
After setting the fastest lap in the opening heat, Brandon would start from pole for Heat 2 with his two more experienced teammates in second and third. Despite a good start, he would be overtaken and spend the rest of the race in third, where he would finish. Heading into the final heat, Brandon was confident of a solid end to the day, aiming for another podium. Unfortunately, his race would end in disaster as he was on the receiving end of a tap from behind while braking for the corner. With the kart out of control, he slid off the circuit and into the tyre barrier. With no way of restarting the kart, he was forced to retire from the race, dashing all hopes of an overall podium finish. He was, however, classified in fifth overall for the day.
“Gutted! Absolutely gutted is all I can say right now. I had a good pace the entire day and was confident of another podium, so being punted off on the opening lap is just so frustrating and disappointing. Yes, there are many positives to take from this weekend, and I have to thank WORR Motorsport for preparing a strong kart, but it doesn’t replace the feeling I have right now. I will, however, remain motivated. It’s been a tough journey, but the fruit is there for the picking,” said Brandon.
Brandon will return to Vereeniging this weekend as he competes in the regional Senior MAX championship.
Published by: Motorsport Fanatix
Picture Caption: Brandon van der Walt
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