2002 South African Drivers’ and WesBank SAMCAR V8 champion Johan Fourie competes again in the third round of the Vodacom Power Tour on 12 April at Aldo Scribante race circuit in Port Elizabeth. Driving his Sasol DualFuel V8 Astra for the Supervan Racing team, Johan is looking to extend his one point advantage over team-mate, Shaun Watson-Smith (MAN/Sasol Astra V8), on the team’s home circuit. –
– Living in Cape Town, Johan is currently working on his physical and mental fitness. Finishing first, after a brilliant drive in the rain, in the opening WesBank V8 heat at Killarney just over a fortnight ago, Johan is pleased with his result. “I had a good time at my home race at Killarney, but when my engine blew on the Thursday I got very nervous. When we replaced the blown engine with my old engine my team suddenly realised I was 30kW down on power compared to Shaun’s car.” –
– “When I qualified second for the first race and took pole for the second longer race, I was really pleased. On the out lap to the starting grid I spun trying to find a bit of grip. I arrived on the start line so embarrassed, and happy to have my helmet on, so nobody could see how red my face was!” –
– “I love the wet and made the most of the conditions. Winning by thirty seconds was great in front of my home crowd. In the second race I went wide in Halls Hook, because there was oil on the track and as I tried to correct it, the car went into snap-oversteer and I nearly lost it, enough for Shaun to pass me. With 30kW less power than him, I had absolutely no chance of catching him. –
– It is true that behind every successful man is a determined woman. In Fourie’s case it’s model Ilse Nel, who spends a lot of time with Johan, ensuring he gets his mind is “in the frame” for the next race. –
– “Johan generally does as he pleases, but sometimes he does listen to me. He is the most relaxed person I have ever met. I think that’s what attracted me to him in the first place,” says Nel. –
– With Sasol (DualFuel) and Supervan behind me, I am confident we’ll do well at Aldo Scribante,” concluded Fourie. For free downloadable photographic of Johan Fourie visit www.motorpics.co.za and click on “people”. –
– Read more about the Sasol Steam Team and its drivers in WesBank Samcar and Engen Polo Cup at www.sasolmotorsport.co.za. ISSUED ON BEHALF OF SASOL OIL BY WISE MEDIA / RACE & RALLY Contact: Peter Wise Telephone: (011) 326 1550 Fax: (011) 326 1552 Mobile: 082 560 2375 E-mail: [email protected]
