Jackie Pretorius was one of the racing heroes who sparked my interest in motorsport back in the ’60s, at the height of the Golden Era of South African motor racing. So the news of his passing really left me with a terrible hollow feeling. For those who haven’t heard, a few days ago Jackie succumbed to injuries received when he was attacked during a robbery at his home in Glen Austin. His wife, Shirley, passed away in similar circumstances about four years ago.
I particularly remember Jackie’s exploits at the wheel of Doug Serrurier’s white Wall’s Ice Cream-sponsored F5000 Lola-Ford. To myself and the other youngsters who used to travel – sometimes walk! – the four miles from my grandfather’s farm near Cove Rock to watch the practising and racing at East London’s Grand Prix circuit, Jackie and his rivals – the likes of John Love, Dave Charlton, Peter de Klerk and Serrurier – were super-heroes. And the “Stop me and buy one” slogan on the Lolas resonated well with a group used to the childish thrill of chasing after the ice cream carts that plied suburban streets in those days.
Later, living in Johannesburg, I continued following Pretorius’ progress, being pretty impressed by his feats in the Brabham BT26. Jackie was, of course, one of the group of South Africans who regularly entered the South African Grand Prix, and I well remember the deserving recognition he got from Frank Williams, who signed him to replace the injured Nanni Galli at the wheel of the Iso-Williams-Cosworth at the 1973 race.
Those were the days when this country was a powerful force in international motorsport, and our heroes had the opportunity to show their talents on the international stage. We were one of the few countries to have a national Formula One championship, with teams running cars that were competitive with those of the world championship contenders. And our sportscar and saloon car racing – showcased internationally by the Springbok Series – were world class. Sadly, economic factors have changed all that.
We still have our heroes, but few are able to achieve the level of world recognition that the likes of Jackie Pretorius achieved.
