SOUTH AFRICA—Approximately 40 local Johannesburg brethren attended their annual pine car derby on July 13, racing a number of creative cars on locally produced South African kit wheels or American wheels.

Assistant Pastor for Africa George Githembe officially started the races with the wave of a checkered flag. A variety of cars raced down the track, including ones that were named after or resembled a smartphone, the Stone of Scone, Herbie, a warthog, a mouse nest, a rhino, Sputnik and Long of Nose (a reference to an article by the late Pastor Ron Fraser).

Ben Murphy’s Star of David, riding on South African heels, gave the American-wheeled competitors a run for their money, but Ronnie Henery’s Braaihout (“firewood”) sped through to the winner’s circle.

“The South African modified bobbin wheels gave the American wheels, which are specially modeled and well-designed, a good run for their money,” Gregory Lightfoot said. “With a little bit of tweaking, we will be able to give the American wheels an uphill battle with the downhill track.”

The crowd cheered as each pair of cars raced down the track, particularly 2-year-old Liam Jordan, who shouted whenever his car, Animal Farm, crossed the finish line.

“The pine car derby was fair, because every car got two chances,” 5-year-old Zeo Smith said. His car, Speed Hornet, took first place in the category for most creative concept.

Mr. Githembe awarded medals to the pine car racers, and members shared a barbecue picnic in the warm winter sun.

Jennifer Seller said, “It was an amazing, fun-filled day, with a good competition done God’s way.”