Cars manoeuvring at high speeds, roaring engines, smoking tyres, and cheering crowds and right in the middle of it all were 95-year-old Aunty Sannie van der Merwe and 81-year-old Aunty Valerie Laubscher(residents of Hernus Kriel behuising, a branch of Badisa) , fearlessly taking on the thrill of gymkhana with the team from Racing4Change at Killarney Raceway.
The two remarkable ladies eagerly agreed to “take a spin” in roaring performance cars as experienced drivers performed controlled gymkhana manoeuvres, proving that adventure and excitement truly have no age limit.
Gymkhana is a form of motorsport that focuses on precision driving, where participants navigate a timed course filled with obstacles such as cones, tight turns, and technical manoeuvres. It is a skill-based discipline that combines speed, control, and accuracy and is the type of motorsport used by Racing4Change in their outreach and community events.
On Saturday, 9 May, Racing4Change hosted a high-energy event at Killarney Raceway, where they presented a donation of R10,000 to the Hernus Kriel Home for the Aged, a branch of Badisa. The occasion also created an unforgettable opportunity for the two ladies to take their seats in roaring performance vehicles, safely accompanied by experienced driver Johandre Duminy.
Aunty Sannie especially delighted the crowd by happily waving to onlookers while the car spun around in front of the audience, capturing the spirit of the day and winning hearts across the event.
Both ladies described the experience as unforgettable and said they were incredibly proud to add it to their growing list of life experiences and achievements. Since the event, they have continued speaking enthusiastically about the opportunity, the warm welcome they received from everyone involved, and the incredible atmosphere maintained throughout the day.
One of the highlights for the aunties was discovering that the youngest participant at the event was only five years old, further reflecting the inclusive and family-oriented spirit created by the organisers.
Racing4Change is a non-profit organisation founded by three couples: Leon Engelbrecht and Monique Engelbrecht, Johan Schade and Juanita Schade, and Abdul Sayed and Rehana Sayed.
The organisation aims to bring upliftment through motorsport by supporting communities through fundraising initiatives, offering welding training and work opportunities, and sharing stories of impact through its “More Than Just Motoring” podcast.
“We wish we had millions to give away,” says Abdul Sayed, one of the founding members. “But we know that every little bit counts towards making a difference.”
The event formed part of Racing4Change’s broader mission to use motorsport as a platform for empowerment, inclusion, inspiration, and positive social impact across generations.
Organisers and supporters praised both women for their bravery and willingness to step outside their comfort zones, describing them as powerful examples of active ageing and community participation.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to Racing4Change and all the organisers, not only for the generous donation to the Hernus Kriel Home for the Aged, but also for creating such a meaningful and unforgettable experience for Aunty Sannie and Aunty Valerie.
Their participation stands as a powerful reminder that life continues to offer moments of excitement, connection, and discovery at every stage.
