Sport
21 November, 2025
Van Ginneken kids follow family tradition
THE name Van Ginnekan is synonymous with motor racing so it’s little surprise that four of the youngest members of the family are also now taking to the track.
Sisters Amber and Sophie Van Ginnekan (children of Simon) and siblings Chase and Lexi (children of Tim) are now embarking on another season in the quarter midget class.
And the four could not be happier.
“It’s pretty cool that all four of us race quarter midgets, it’s a lot of fun and we get to compete at different tracks,” 12 year-old Chase, the ‘veteran’ of the young drivers said.
“One day I’d like to be racing Sprintcars like dad and I reckon I could beat him one day.
“This year is my fourth season in quarter midgets and last Saturday I had my first race at Premier Speedway in the Junior Formula 500s.
“I recently raced in it (the 500) at Murray Bridge and finished fifth but last weekend was my first time racing a 500 at Premier.”
While Chase set out to “just finish and bring the car home in one piece” last Saturday, his performance on the track resulted in a spot in the A Main – where he finished a creditable 10th from 18 competitors.
Chase’s younger sister Lexi (9) has also caught the racing bug and is currently in her first season in the car.
“Everyone in our family races, or has raced before, so I thought why not try it?” she said.
“It’s actually a lot of fun and I think I’m doing okay.
“Mum used to race too but she doesn’t anymore, she really likes watching us though.”
Sisters Amber and Sophie also enjoy their time both on and off the track, saying having a common interest with their cousins is “pretty special.”
“It’s fun when we’re all at the track having a go,” Amber said.
The siblings raced at Horsham last weekend - Sophie finished fourth and Amber 10th in their final.
And while anticipated growth spurts may see some of these youngsters soon outgrow their cars, one thing is certain – their love of motorsport looks set to continue for years to come.
