A survey conducted in 2001 by Peter du Toit, Zwartkops circuit owner: Zetec Formula Ford has become the prime focus formula for motor racing in Europe. A number of factors have contributed to this, inter alia:
- It is almost a universal formula
- The racing is affordable
- It relies on true racing skills
- It has a number of key events in England (National Championship and World Festival) and the continent (SPA, Belgium)
- It is the prime source of future champions - most Formula One drivers have passed through Formula Ford
- It is prestigious. To race and win in Fords makes a statement of ability.
- There is not a comparative formula on the horizon at the moment
- A testimony to the above is at SPA where over 90 entries were received for a 35 car field. The UK Winter series also produces entries in excess of 50 for 30 car grids.
In short - Zetec is an extremely competitive formula.
Formula Ford in South Africa
Correctly managed, it is manageable and a lot more cost efficient than many appreciate. Over the past two seasons, Zetec's have produced some of the finest motor racing seen in South Africa.
How does Zetec Rank?
Herewith a survey done by a number of South African and British Drivers / entrants / managers. Part of this test is:
"If you arrive in the UK and your C.V. states:
- I have won ZETEC RACES
- I am production / saloon car champion
- I race sports cars
What would the reaction be?"
The general consensus was:
- If you have won Zetec we will test you in single-seaters
- No matter how well you have done in South Africa in Saloons you will be given a "baby" saloon to test
- If you race sports cars - we will have to look for something.
Taking into account the Independent ranking of various marks awarded to the different series it was/is clear that: The highest Ranking series (four wheels) is Zetec Formula Ford.
It stands to reason as:
- It is global
- It is affordable in an international context
- The racing is very good