Local Legends Don’t Just Race — They Build the Road for Others

In a sport where speed meets precision, and passion fuels every lap, two young local racers are carving their own path in the high-octane world of motorsport. Nathi Msimanga and Simphiwe Mohlahlo are more than just drivers, they’re Driven to be Legendary, living proof that with determination and resilience, legends are born, even in the face of obstacles.

From the very first time Nathi Msimanga picked up a Hot Wheels car and created the roar of an engine, to the time he felt the thrill of speed back in 2016, he knew racing was more than a hobby, it was his calling. Introduced to South African motorsport by his father, Nathi’s passion quickly grew beyond just competition. “It wasn’t just about racing cars, it was about the challenge, the drive to turn something I love into a real career, even when most people don’t understand why I’m chasing this dream,” he shares.

For Nathi, entering motorsport wasn’t simple. “The path to becoming a racer wasn’t easy. There’s little information about the cost, requirements, the various opportunities for racers of different ages or about the possible career paths for aspiring local racers. I was lucky my dad had an extensive network which helped me get started.” That determination to break into an underrepresented sport continues to fuel his ambition to climb the  leaderboard and inspire others to do the same.

Simphiwe Mohlahlo’s journey took a different route. Though she always admired speed and fast cars, it wasn’t until recently she found herself fully immersed in the racing world. “I started attending events in 2023, just soaking it all in to understand what it takes to become a racer. Motorsport felt like a distant dream, especially as a woman. So I want to show girls of all ages, that it’s possible to break through, no matter how expensive or tough it seems.”

Her drive to be legendary comes from a bigger purpose: “Every time I get into a racing car, I’m breaking barriers, creating awareness and building a path for other women who want to follow. It’s about creating opportunities and awareness for the next generation, reminding them that the Hot Wheels car in their hands is the beginning of a journey to being fulfilled.”

Being legendary, for both of them, is about more than trophies or fame. It’s about encouraging others to make a mark that’s uniquely theirs. “It’s about creating something new from your own passion, not copying what others have done,” Nathi says. Simphiwe agrees, adding, “Legends push beyond limits, break barriers, and overcome every challenge, proving what the words ‘dedication’ and ‘talent’ really mean.”

They both understand the power of inspiration. Showing kids in South Africa that racing isn’t just a fantasy from movies or overseas, it’s real and possible here. It starts with your first hot Wheels car that leads you into the driver’s seat, and sometimes, it’s building a collection of premium cars, that continues to inspire you to even greater heights. Simphiwe urges parents to notice and nurture the interests their children have, even if those interests don’t fit the usual mould. “My journey is different from most racers who start young, but I’m proof you can catch up and compete when you’re truly dedicated.”

Their favourite Hot Wheels cars reflect their personalities. Nathi is drawn to the iconic Fast and Furious R34 GTR, while Simphiwe champions the bold Ford Mustang Dark Horse. These little cars are more than toys, they’re symbols of speed, ambition, and dreams.

Together, Nathi and Simphiwe have turned their passion for racing into a lasting legacy, and to inspire a new generation to follow in their tire tracks. Being ‘Driven To Be Legendary’ is about passion, persistence, and the courage to chase a dream against the odds, and it can all start by getting your hands on the Hot Wheels Premium range, to fuel your motor racing dreams, or even the dream of owning your own supercar.