Breaking Barriers in Africa: All-Female Team and Youngest Driver Ignite 24-Hour ‘Lemons’ Race Showdown

4 mins read
motorsport endurance race

The MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna is a pioneering motorsport event in Africa featuring an all-female team and the youngest known driver participating in a 24-hour Main Circuit race. The race is unique as it caters exclusively to “Lemons” vehicles, with a price tag of less than R55k, and attracts a diverse mix of vehicles and teams. This event shatters stereotypes and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in motorsport, pushing the limits of what is considered possible.

What is the MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna?

The MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna is a pioneering motorsport event in Africa featuring an all-female team and the youngest known driver participating in a 24-hour Main Circuit race. The race is unique as it caters exclusively to “Lemons” vehicles, with a price tag of less than R55k. The event encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in motorsport, pushing the limits of what is considered possible.

A groundbreaking historical event is on the horizon for motorsport fans in Africa, as the MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna will feature an all-female team and the youngest known driver participating in a 24-hour Main Circuit race. Hosted at the Redstar Raceway near Delmas, this endurance event attracts a diverse mix of vehicles and teams, pushing both drivers and cars to their limits.

A Varied Assortment of “Lemons”

The MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna is a unique event, catering exclusively to “Lemons”—vehicles with a price tag of less than R55k. With 74 clunkers in the lineup, the race will exhibit an eclectic range of rust buckets, from retired tow trucks and crumbling Datsuns to corroded Toyotas and more. Embracing the event’s eccentric character, teams such as Boetfighters, Nucking Futs, Sax & Violins, and crowd-favorite Princess Asstina the Fifth will compete side by side in a 24-hour, nonstop battle.

A Classic Le Mans-style Kickoff

The race is set to begin with a traditional Le Mans-style start, where drivers sprint across the track to their vehicles at 12:15 pm on Saturday. The contest will rage on until the finish line on Sunday, with drivers emerging exhausted and battered after an intense 24-hour face-off.

A Historic All-Female Endurance Team in Africa

Among the competing teams is the first-ever all-female 24-hour endurance team in Africa, the Pink Arrows. BeauAnn Hegyi, Jo-Anne Gibbon, Lea-Anne Massey-Hicks, and Natalie Weston make up the team, who will compete in an aged Mercedes SLK. The Pink Arrows’ mission is to smash stereotypes and inspire other women to challenge themselves in motorsport. Team captain BeauAnn expressed her hope that their entry will motivate more women to defy expectations and enter the world of motorsport.

A 24-Hour Main Circuit Race With the Youngest Driver

Another groundbreaking achievement will take place as 15-year-old Nikki Vostanis joins the event, becoming the youngest driver to participate in a 24-hour Main Circuit race. Vostanis started karting in 2021 and has since earned podium finishes in the Toyota Academy’s inaugural Yaris Cup and a top-five finish in his Polo Supercup debut. Nikki will be teaming up with Asiento Rapido, driving their Seat Leon.

A Magnificent and Reckless Odyssey

The third annual MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna is regarded as the most magnificent and reckless undertaking drivers will engage in all year. The event is proudly backed by Dunlop tires, Havoline oils, and Insurisk wealth management. Motorsport enthusiasts can track the race on Facebook or Instagram, ensuring they catch all the thrilling action.

Shattering Stereotypes and Pushing Boundaries

The MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna not only offers an entertaining and challenging motorsport event but also serves as a platform for breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. By providing an opportunity for the first all-female endurance team in Africa and the youngest driver to compete in a 24-hour Main Circuit race, the event encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in motorsport, pushing the limits of what is considered possible.

A Promising Future for Motorsport in Africa

The MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna is more than just a race; it is a testament to the growth and potential of motorsport in Africa. As the event gains recognition and support, it is certain that many more talented drivers and teams will emerge from the continent, challenging the status quo and reshaping the world of motorsport.

1. What is the MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna?

The MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna is a pioneering motorsport event in Africa featuring an all-female team and the youngest known driver participating in a 24-hour Main Circuit race. The race is unique as it caters exclusively to “Lemons” vehicles, with a price tag of less than R55k.

2. What type of vehicles participate in the race?

The race caters exclusively to “Lemons” vehicles, with a price tag of less than R55k. This means the race will exhibit an eclectic range of rust buckets, from retired tow trucks and crumbling Datsuns to corroded Toyotas and more.

3. How does the race begin?

The race begins with a traditional Le Mans-style start, where drivers sprint across the track to their vehicles at 12:15 pm on Saturday.

4. Who is the first-ever all-female 24-hour endurance team in Africa?

The first-ever all-female 24-hour endurance team in Africa is the Pink Arrows. BeauAnn Hegyi, Jo-Anne Gibbon, Lea-Anne Massey-Hicks, and Natalie Weston make up the team, who will compete in an aged Mercedes SLK.

5. Who is the youngest driver participating in a 24-hour Main Circuit race?

Nikki Vostanis is the youngest driver participating in a 24-hour Main Circuit race. He is 15 years old and will be teaming up with Asiento Rapido, driving their Seat Leon.

6. Who sponsors the race?

The race is proudly backed by Dunlop tires, Havoline oils, and Insurisk wealth management.

7. What is the goal of the race?

The MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna not only offers an entertaining and challenging motorsport event but also serves as a platform for breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. By providing an opportunity for the first all-female endurance team in Africa and the youngest driver to compete in a 24-hour Main Circuit race, the event encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in motorsport, pushing the limits of what is considered possible.

8. What does the future hold for motorsport in Africa?

As the MF Autobody 24 Hours of iLamuna gains recognition and support, it is certain that many more talented drivers and teams will emerge from the continent, challenging the status quo and reshaping the world of motorsport. The event is a testament to the growth and potential of motorsport in Africa.

Previous Story

Game-Changing Security Moves: South Africa Leads Maritime Revolution Against Piracy and Cyber Threats

Next Story

The Battle for Rugby’s Soul: How Danie Craven’s Legacy Fuels the Stormers in a High-Stakes Showdown at Stellenbosch

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.