The Gauteng based F1 Simulator Challenge powered by World Sports Betting which recently made its way to Kyalami Corner boasts an impressive prize offering for victors. We recently got to grips with the machinery for some virtual fun.
It is no secret, motorsport is the easiest way to make your hard earned stash of money disappear in the shortest time possible. Despite this, it is one that offers unrivalled excitement, entertainment and elation when crossing the chequered flag ahead of anyone else for us petrolheads. Those fortunate enough to experience these aspects will also likely know the downside to the sport. The most obvious of which being the expense but also the heartbreak and anxiety of unintentionally destroying mechanical components. Did we mention excessive wear-and-tear or the bill for new rubber which comes far more frequently than what is deemed normal yet? 
The stopgap for those wanting to have this fun for a fraction of the price exists in the form of simulators. While cheaper alternatives can range from a console connected to a steering wheel and pedals, the more intricate setups expectedly offer a considerably more realistic experience. This is the case with the F1 Simulator challenge which is built on a bespoke frame and has the ability to immerse players in the virtual world of racing. Winners of this challenge can even enjoy real-life driving experiences but more on that later.
As with anything, sim setups vary in price range with the F1 Simulator Challenge ranging on the more costly side of the spectrum. Bespoke components and the enveloping bodywork modelled on the late 2000’s Formula 1 challengers provides an unrivalled experience, with a seating position akin to that of the real thing. The tyres on this fixed showpiece, with marbles melted onto their surface are era-correct too! Of course, these are all niceties but the triple screen layout directly in front of the cockpit as well as the force feedback steering wheel and pedals ensure that the virtual exchange is as close to the real thing as can be expected. 
The Gauteng based F1 Simulator Challenge will still be heading to the Mall of the South, East Rand Mall, Benmore Centre with Centurion Mall and Maponya Mall yet to host their second experience. The Top 10 competitors to set times throughout the campaign at the famed Italian circuit of Monza will battle it out at the Grand Final at Centurion Mall on the 24th of September on a surprise circuit. 
The grand prizes reserved for the Top 3 competitors include driving experiences and cash vouchers. The second runner up will win a Master Drive Collision avoidance, skid control and 4×4 and Anti Hijack experience with a R3 000 fuel voucher, R5 000 mall voucher and R2 500 World Sports Betting voucher. Second place will receive a Master Drive Mustang Advanced Driving Experience, Skid Control, 4×4 test and Anti Hijack experience as well as a R3 000 fuel voucher, R10 000 mall voucher and R5 000 World Sports Betting voucher. The overall winner of the F1 Simulator Challenge will receive a 20 minute track drive in a Ferrari 360 Challenge race car as well as Hot laps with a racing instructor while also winning R20 000 in cash, a R5 000 mall voucher and a R10 000 World Sports Betting voucher. 
The winner may even use his earnings to get a simulator rig and potentially pursue the virtual racing world more seriously like local Jordan Sherratt who now races for Lamborghini’s Esport team.
