Graham Ferreira says he is born in 60 something, that means he is approaching 50 too fast for comfort. Married to Karin, who excelled in the development class a few years ago, between them they have 3 children, Nicole, Tammy and Peter.
Graham is a true entrepeneur, and builds, fixes, buys, sells, lets out and the like, his main current enterprise is a car rental company in George.
When asked how he got involved in oval track racing, he smiles and says: “ When I was a little tyke I wanted to race (anything) and started on bicycles, then moved on to motorbikes and then cars. I started racing oval track with Riaan Boshoff’s Opel kadett in 2002”
Graham has raced in every class besides midgets (and development). Currently he is a serious contender in both 2.1’s and hotrods, and invariably finishes on the podium. Graham has a flair and drives a fwd to look like it is a rwd.
He hails from a modest racing career and vast experience in Toyota Rsi Cup (tar track), Western Province Moto-X, Production Car Drag racing and takes part in Motor gymkhanas.
When asked about is first race experience and nerves? “Loved it and still love it, yes I still feel the nerves before a big race but once the flag drops, it’s over’s!
His best achievments are impressive: Rookie of the year 1985 Toyota Rsi Cup. George Motor Club Champion and SWD Champ in his first year on dirt. Western Province Champion 2006. Klein Karoo Champion 2006. S.A.2 in 2007 !!
He describes sponsors as a Big Black Hole, but is helped by fellow drivers and enthusiasts. Wheels, CHE Radiators, Classic Paints, Silencer and CV Joint Centre and J.P.Motor spares have sponsored him from the beginning, not to mention Mike from Leading Edge who has always supplied his stickers.
Asked about the winning motive, he is tongue in the cheek with “ That would be telling, but now mainly for enjoyment …when we lose…."
His dream about the sport is, as in the States, to be paid as drivers. To be acknowleged as pro’s. To be able to do it fulltime.
Graham was a paraplegic after an aeroplane accident that left him paralyzed with a broken back and other multiple fractures. He was told he would never walk again let alone have feeling below his waist. How wrong they were……….