To mark the 15th running of the Simola Hillclimb in May next year, the organisers have given the event logo a full refresh and designed a range of branded clothing to go with event that will take place in Knysna from May 1 to May 4 next year.
Since its inception in 2009, the Simola Hillclimb has transformed from a modest concept into a premier motoring event, attracting top drivers, cars and fans from across the globe. The event's appeal has even extended to ‘hillclimb monsters’ – custom-built machines specifically designed to conquer the 1,9 km Simola Hill.
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Ian Shrosbree, co-founder and Managing Director of the Knysna Speed Festival, which owns the event, reflects on the hillclimb’s journey.
"It’s incredible to think that this event, which began as an idea to boost tourism in Knysna after the 2008 financial crisis, has evolved into a world-class motorsport spectacle," he says. "Reaching our 15th edition next year is a major milestone, and we couldn’t be more excited about the future."
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As part of the preparations for the landmark 15th edition, the event organisers have unveiled a striking new logo, designed to reflect the Simola Hillclimb’s evolution and future ambitions. The original logo, which featured an iconic image from the 1931 South African Grand Prix programme, had served the event well since 2009. However, the design was somewhat limiting in terms of its versatility, especially for modern branding and merchandise opportunities.
"Although the original logo became synonymous with the event, it was never designed with branding in mind. It was time for an update that would take the Simola Hillclimb into the future while honouring its rich heritage."
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The new logo, designed by graphic artist Kayley Malherbe and developed in collaboration with branding specialists at The Pro Shop Corporate, is bold, modern, and highly adaptable. The design focuses on speed, competition, and tradition, incorporating dynamic lines that evoke the thrill of racing and a vintage car silhouette reminiscent of the event's origins.
"We’ve moved away from the intricate 3D, pictorial style of the old logo," explains Malherbe. "Instead, we've embraced a cleaner, more modern 2D design, which makes the logo instantly recognisable across various platforms and formats, from digital media to merchandise."
The refreshed brand and logo mark the beginning of a new chapter, one that will continue to elevate the hillclimb as a top-tier international motorsport festival.
"The new logo is just the start," Shrosbree adds. "We’re committed to making each year’s event more thrilling than the last, and we’re excited to welcome competitors and spectators from all corners of the globe to Knysna next May. It’s going to be an unforgettable event.”
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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