About us

Founded in 1975 by George Santana and Bruce Coquelle, Autoquip Group Limited built its early reputation by perfectly balancing mainstream automotive spare parts distribution with a highly specialized, historic footprint in the South African automotive market.

The Birth of Autoquip Motorsport (1982)

As the broader group expanded its commercial footprint across multiple divisions, Autoquip Motorsport was launched in 1982. Designed specifically to cater to the rigorous high-performance and safety needs of local South African Motorsport.

Over the decades, Autoquip Motorsport grew into a legendary name in the South African racing scene, serving as a prominent industry sponsor and evolving from a corporate division into an independent powerhouse.

Transition to 1stRACE (2000–2012)

In 2000, Sharon Venter (Roos) joined as the General Manager of Autoquip Motorsport. Following the passing Bruce Coquelle in 2012, Sharon Venter was given the opportunity to acquire the business.
Because the acquisition required transitioning into a standalone enterprise, the company was rebranded as 1stRACE and made its landmark move to its permanent home at Zwartkops Raceway in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Thanks to Sharon Venter’s long-standing passion and dedication to the Motorsport industry 1stRACE preserved its proud heritage, maintaining unbroken relationships with racing suppliers, and competitors to this day.

1stRACE entered a new phase in 2016 when Wayne Van Rooyen joined his sister following Rocky Reyneke’s retirement. Wayne’s arrival fostered a tight-knit family culture and brought a fresh wave of passion and personal dedication to the floor.

Today and Moving Forward

Following the conclusion of longstanding sole-supply contracts with Bridgestone South Africa, the company entered an exciting new chapter in 2026 by welcoming investor and now co-owner Charel Weyers.

With fresh vision and decades of racing pedigree, 1stRACE continues to lead the way in keeping South African drivers safe and competitive on the track.