The Simola Hillclimb: A Thrilling Ascent into South African Motorsport History

Nestled in the lush, rolling hills of Knysna, the Simola Hillclimb has become one of South Africa’s most prestigious and adrenaline-fueled motorsport events. Since its inception in 2009, this annual spectacle has drawn petrolheads, professional racers and spectators from across the country and beyond, transforming a quiet stretch of tarmac into a battleground for speed, skill and engineering excellence.  

The event’s origins trace back to local motorsport enthusiasts who envisioned a world-class hillclimb competition on South African soil. Inspired by legendary European events like the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the organisers sought to create a unique challenge that would test both man and machine. The chosen route—a 1,9-kilometre stretch of Simola Hill, with its sharp bends, steep gradients, and breathtaking views—proved to be the perfect stage.  

What sets the Simola Hillclimb apart is its blend of raw competition and festival atmosphere. Unlike traditional circuit racing, hillclimbs are a pure test of acceleration, nerve, and precision, with drivers attacking the course one at a time, chasing the fastest possible run. Over the years, the event has grown to include multiple categories, from classic cars and road-going supercars to purpose-built single-seaters, ensuring a diverse and thrilling display of automotive prowess.  

Ian Shrosbree, Managing Director of Knysna Motor Company and a key figure behind the event, reflects on its evolution: *”When we started, we never imagined how big it would become. The Simola Hillclimb has put Knysna on the global motorsport map. It’s not just about the racing—it’s about the passion, the camaraderie, and the sheer spectacle of seeing these incredible machines pushed to their limits.”*  

One of the most memorable moments in the event’s history came in 2018 when Franco Scribante, behind the wheel of his Porsche 911 GT1, shattered records with a blistering time of 38,934 seconds—a feat that still stands as the benchmark for the King of the Hill title. Scribante’s run encapsulated the essence of the Hillclimb: a perfect marriage of driver skill and mechanical brilliance.  

Beyond the racing, the Simola Hillclimb has become a celebration of car culture. The Classic Car Friday segment pays homage to automotive heritage, with vintage racers and meticulously restored classics taking on the hill. Meanwhile, the main event attracts modern hypercars, tuner specials, and even the occasional surprise entry—like the appearance of a fire-breathing, nitro-powered dragster in 2019, which left spectators in awe.  

For the locals, the event is a major economic boost, with hotels, restaurants, and businesses thriving during the race weekend. But more than that, it’s a source of pride. As Shrosbree notes, “The community has embraced the Hillclimb. It’s become part of Knysna’s identity—a time when petrolheads and families alike come together to celebrate speed and engineering.”

Looking ahead, the Simola Hillclimb shows no signs of slowing down. With each passing year, the competition grows fiercer, the cars more advanced, and the crowds larger. It’s a testament to South Africa’s vibrant motorsport culture—a culture that thrives on passion, innovation, and the unrelenting pursuit of the perfect run.  

As the engines roar and the tyres screech against the tarmac, one thing is certain: the Simola Hillclimb isn’t just a race—it’s a legacy in motion.