SUCCESSFUL #LILYTHEGOLF FUNDRAISER IN AID OF THE ANN VAN DYK CHEETAH CENTRE

Clare Vale’s Black Art Racing team has had a long relationship with the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre, De Wildt. Since 2009, they have held an annual corporate karting day at Zwartkops in aid of the Centre, and from 2009 to 2019 they have raised over R500,000.00 for them.

When Covid and lockdown hit in March 2020, all gatherings were cancelled, and last year they were unable to host a karting day. Like most NGOs, the Centre has been struggling to make ends meet, and the team had to think of something new this year in order to assist them.

Together with co-drivers Brian Martin, Morne Jurgens and Dean Hogg, the team had already entered the inaugural 24 Hours of I’Lamuna event, which took place at the end of October at Red Star Raceway. The team decided to raffle their elderly Mark 1 Golf in order to raise funds for the Centre, and named her Lily, after one of the cheetahs at the Centre.

“We had no idea if the plan would be a success”, says Clare, “but I’m happy to say we have raised R100,000.00 for the Centre, thanks to the support we received.” The final draw for the winner took place on Sunday 21st November, at the Ridgeway Racebar in Greenstone. Motorsport legend, Roger McCleery, was on hand to announce the lucky winner: Luke Webb.

“Lily the Golf is a very special car: she finished the 24 Hours of I’Lamuna in 23rd place of 43 cars – not bad for a 35 year old road car!”, says Clare. “We know that most people bought a ticket in the hope of winning Lily, but in fact the real winner is the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre. Hopefully this contribution to their funds will help them continue the great work that they do.”

Clare’s team are planning to hold another karting day next year, Covid allowing, so please keep an eye on social media and get your entry in early if you would like to participate. The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre will be open for visits and tours throughout the holidays. Information is available on their website: www.dewildt.co.za