Classic Car Friday kicks off the action on 1 May, drawing an eclectic field of 65 cars spanning nearly a century of motorsport history, from a 1926 Austin 7 to a 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 GTA.

Before the racing begins, spectators can get up close during official scrutineering in Knysna's Hedge Street on Thursday 30 April, followed by a Classic Car Parade along Waterfront Drive. It promises to be a feast for the senses before the real battle commences on the 1.9 km Simola Hill.

The Fight for the classic conqueror title:

The headline rivalry is once again expected to be between Franco Scribante and Andre Bezuidenhout. Scribante, a seven-time Classic Conqueror champion, returns in his 1970 Chevron B19 looking to defend his 2024 title. Andre, driving his 1976 Lola T460 Formula Atlantic single-seater, won in 2023 and came agonisingly close last year, finishing just six-tenths of a second behind the winner in wet conditions. Both men arrive with plenty to prove.

Racing machines and Tin-Top Titans:

The open-wheel and racing car classes are stacked with talent. Alongside Franco and Andre, the field includes 2022 winner Ian Schofield, Josh Dovey, and a trio of classic Formula Fords. A welcome newcomer is Margie White, who steps up from her pre-war Austin 7 Special to drive a 1967 Mallock Lotus Mark 6b, with a refreshingly down-to-earth outlook on the challenge ahead.

The saloon car classes are equally compelling. BB Motorsport makes its Classic Car Friday debut with a pair of Nissan Skyline GT-Rs, the R34 and the R33, driven by Reghard Roets and Arnold du Plessis respectively. Aldo Scribante joins the class for the first time in a 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 GTA, adding further intrigue to an already strong grid.

Legendary road cars and golden oldies:

The road car classes bring their own flavour, with highlights including an Enzo Kuun in a 1989 Ferrari 348, a pair of AC Cobras, and a 1956 Jaguar D-Type replica from the Parnell Bruce Collection. The Pickards are making it a family affair, with Hannes, son Jacques and daughter Danielle all competing in separate cars.

The pre-war H1 class runs on a handicap format, rewarding precision over outright speed. The oldest car in the field, a 1926 Austin 7 Single Seater, will line up against a 1933 Riley and two further entries from the Parnell Bruce Collection.

A community event at heart:

Beyond the competition, the Simola Hillclimb thrives on the dedication of its volunteers. Sporting director Leon Smith was quick to recognise the contribution of the MG Car Club's South Cape members, who give their time both as competitors and as marshals throughout the weekend.

• Tickets and information are available at www.simolahillclimb.com