05 Aug E.R.A. RACING TEAM JOINS STIER RACING FOR A DAY OF KARTING FUN
E.R.A. (English Racing Automobile), also known as Eloff Racing Academy, spent a full day at the karting track with Stier Racing, thanks to an invite from Ethan Stier. The outing took place just across from the Killarney main circuit and gave four E.R.A. team members the chance to learn, have fun, and get more track time under their belts.
Representing E.R.A. were Christopher Huisamen (junior driver and mechanic), Luan van Heerden (#88 Formula Vee driver), Riven Jurgens (#15 upcoming Formula Vee driver), and Jenna Clarkson (mechanic for two of the team’s Formula Vee cars).
The goal was to get comfortable on a race track and have a solid session focusing on feel, lines, and confidence. Before the team got going, the Stier crew gave a helpful rundown of karting basics, how sensitive the karts are, and most importantly, reminded everyone to simply enjoy it. Each driver had eight minutes on track to get in as many laps as possible.
Up first was Luan, who lit up the second he made it onto the track. His excitement was impossible to miss and had the rest of the team fired up before they’d even touched the wheel. Out on track, Luan took every lap as a chance to push the kart a little more, always looking for an excuse to accelerate, take in the feel of the kart, and just have a good time. At the same time, he was learning, soaking up what he could and taking mental notes for his own racing.
Next up was Riven. She hadn’t been in a kart for well over a decade, but once she got in, it didn’t take long for her focus to lock in. She spent the first few laps mapping out the circuit, working through her racing lines, and getting a feel for the pedals again. It turned into a proper learning curve that’s already helped her prepare for her next round of karting. And, as expected, she came off the track with a massive grin stretched across her face.
Third was Chris, who looked like he was having the time of his life. Even back in the E.R.A. garage, his excitement when climbing into one of the cockpits is always easy to spot. He lights up every single time. So getting into a kart and having the chance to push it on track took things to a whole new level for him. From the moment he left the pit lane, he was focused. His laps showed not just natural skill but real intent to learn. It’s clear that being in the kart only deepened his love for racing, something that already runs deep within him.
Finally, Jenna got into the kart after a few setup tweaks, and once she hit the track, she settled in quickly. From the first lap to the fourth, you could see her figuring out her lines, each time getting to where she wanted to be. By the second half of her session, she had locked in her corners and was clearly enjoying herself. When she stepped out of the kart, there was no mistaking the grin on her face. There was genuine joy pouring off her as she stepped out after the session.
After the session, many thanks were passed on to Stier and their team, who truly made the E.R.A. crew feel welcomed and at ease. They created a safe, open racing environment that gave everyone the space to learn, grow, and enjoy themselves without pressure.
By the end of the day, everyone left buzzing with energy. It was one of those days that reminded everyone just how much joy motorsport can bring, especially when you’re surrounded by the right people.
Big thanks to Stier for your hospitality and for allowing E.R.A. into your world.
Safe to say, all Tuesdays should be spent like this!
TEXT BY: RIVEN JURGENS
PHOTO BY: RIVEN JURGENS