The Historic Tour headed inland to the popular Phakisa Freeway circuit in Welkom for the seventh round of the 2016 season on Saturday 10 September. The day was run in memory of the late Ian Auret who contributed so much to motorsport himself.
Freddie de Kock (Porsche 911 RSR) and Philip Pantazis (Datsun IMSA 260Z) in tow
The first race for the Marlboro Crane Hire Pre-79 Historic Saloons classes A – E and Pre-84 Sports & GT and Classic Thoroughbred category saw some close racing action throughout the field. Pole man Peter Jenkins (Chevron B19) took the lead at the start of the first race with Freddie de Kock (Porsche 911 RSR) and Philip Pantazis (Datsun IMSA 260Z) in tow. Anton Raaths (Chev Camaro) had a change from his usual racing steed and was up to third a lap later. With the leaders breaking away in front the class E pack was just as close with Jackie Morrison (Ford Escort) fending of Gert Botes (Ford Escort MK 1) and Justin Ladner (Ford Capri). Raaths was on a charge and dived up the inside of de Kock coming off the back sweep on lap four to claim second.
Morrison was unlucky to retire on the same lap when oil pressure problems put paid to his chances. De Kock regained his second place on lap five while Pantazis slowed with overheating brake issues a lap later. Jenkins held on for the Overall victory ahead of de Kock and Raaths. Pantazis held on for fourth position with Fred Konig (Porsche 911 RSR) and George Avvakoumides (Porsche 911 RSR) rounding out the top six. A strong finish from John McLachlan (Datsun 1200GX) saw him take the class E honours ahead of Botes and Johan Prins (Datsun 160U).
