Talent
Monishka Govender | Published 7 hours ago
CONNOR February’s debut at the Gas Motorshow showcased his spinning talent, but not without sparking an online debate over the appropriateness of his age for such a dangerous sport.
Harry Naidoo, founder of Gas Motorshow International, said Connor’s performance was legal.
“The legal age to get a motorsport licence is as young as 4 years old. As long as his legal guardian gave him permission and he is in a controlled environment, he is allowed to drive. He cannot drive on the roads, but he can do motorsport. This is why I created these avenues in South Africa, to have a safe, controlled and legal environment for youth to realise their love for motorsport and compete.
“It is sad that not many people know the facts and tend to leave negative comments. We are the largest motorsports event in South Africa, and we take legalities seriously. Connor spent a while training and getting ready for the show. He was brilliant. I have no doubt that he will be the best spinner in South Africa,” said Naidoo.
Despite the negativity, Connor remains focused on his passion, and hopes people will take the time to understand the sport before passing judgement.
"My father is a well-known spinner and drifter nationally, so I grew up watching videos of him participating at events. He was always my inspiration, and the reason I wanted to spin."
Connor started learning the art of spinning in November last year when he was just 10 years old.
Ahead of the Gas Motorshow, he underwent training at The Hills under the SPINhunters development programme.
"It was difficult when I first started because it was my first time driving a car. I needed to understand the brakes and clutch, or on how to start a car. My dad was also there to mentor and encourage me."
The young spinner admitted that performing in front of a large audience at the motorshow was intimidating.
"I was very nervous because it was my very first event, and I did not want to make any mistakes. But I had so much fun with all my spins."
He said the crowd's enthusiastic reaction helped ease his nerves.
"The crowd enjoyed it a lot. They were screaming and clapping. It made me very shy when I had to get out and stand on the car, but that support made me drive even better."
Addressing concerns about his safety, Connor stressed that all his training and performances took place under strict supervision.
"I only spin in controlled areas that have safety measures in place, and an experienced adult is always with me in the car. My training before the event was at a spin training school where we practise during the week after school with instructors, in a controlled environment.
"Some people say I am too young, but I wanted to do motorsport, and spinning was most affordable," he said.
"In the future, I want to do well in school first, then become a professional spinner and drifter, and be successful," he said.
"Don't give up when time gets tough. Work hard, put in the time, and don't give up no matter what anyone has to say.”
His father, Shaun February, said seeing his son in action was a proud moment.
February, who is both a spinner and instructor in the SPINhunters development programme, said Connor's talent was evident from an early stage.
He added that Connor did not need an official driver's permit to operate in a motorsport.
“Oval racing and karting start at the age of 5. So seeing an 11-year-old in motorsport is not something new,” he added.
February said there were talks about spinning becoming a formalised sport.
“Currently, there are no regulations for spinning as a sport. The country's events offices have safety criteria that are met by all promoters doing events, so that this sport is done safely for participants and the public.”
February said many of the online comments stemmed from misunderstandings about the sport.
"Their opinions are uninformed. I would make a noise only once I know and understand the facts of any situation. I would suggest people become informed, understand the facts, and then form an opinion."
February expressed gratitude to the Gas Motorshow organisers for providing a platform for young talent.
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