Twenty-eight-year-old Steven DeNobrega is one of the racers who will be competing in the Starlet category of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s “Clash of Champions” card being staged at the South Dakota Circuit today.
The young father of two, last of five children born to Leandra and Gregory DeNobrega, completed his secondary education at School of the Nations, and is the father of two boys: Chase, who is now one year old; and Eli, who is four years old.
Among his hobbies is motor racing, in which he became engaged at age 16. He started his career by participating in the dirt bike novice category, after which he switched to go-karts, and has now evolved into the Starlet Cup category.
Steven describes himself as a cool, loving person with a good personality. Growing up as a young man, he has always admired Stephen Vieira and Andrew King, two veterans of motor racing. He was often mesmerized by the varying heroics of these men from a very tender age while going to watch races with his family.
Steven DeNobrega and his family
“I always came to the races from a tender age; and from that point, I knew it was something I always wanted to do,” Steven has declared.
He is currently competing in the Starlet category, but his hope is not to remain there, but to eventually join the big boys in the Group League. He has been quite successful while competing in dirt bike races, and has several wins under his belt. In addition, he has won the senior go-kart race and currently holds the second spot in the Starlet Cup Championships.
As he looks ahead, he sees himself bettering his craft with the aim of winning more championships; but he says he would also spend some time with his four-year-old son, who is already riding.
One of Steven’s most memorable races occurred in 2018 when he competed at the motocross Championships, which was a rewarding experience. DeNobrega represented Guyana in Jamaica, where he competed in the go-kart championships and finished in the top three. He also represented Guyana in Suriname at the Dirt Bike Championships, which he won.
Car number 221 is one to look out for
Young speedster Steven DeNobrega has said he is impressed with the new layout of the South Dakota track – one that will see racers taking advantage by showcasing their full potential.
“With the new layout, it definitely brings a new dynamic to racing; and with proper management, I think we can get back motor racing in Guyana to its top level,” he offered. However, his all-time favourite racing track is Gt Motorsport at Thomas Lands, Georgetown.
Today Steven DeNobrega will be aiming to win big in the Starlet category of the Clash of Champions, but one of his main competitors is Nyron Maraj. He had this to say of their impending clash: “Well, I respect all of the guys that I compete with, but me and Nyron Maraj have been going at it for a couple of years now.”
They are not enemies; it is just that whenever they compete against each other, the rivalry is intense, with each of them pressing the accelerator to cross the finish line ahead of the other. Steven has always made his team proud by winning races, and without a doubt, the team enjoys every moment of victory.
Young and dynamic, this impressive racer told Guyana Times that while motor racing is demanding, it is important that he finds time for his family and for work.
“Spending time with the family is one of my greatest joys… Seeing my two sons brings the positive vibes that calm the nerves after a hectic day at work… They are my go-to when I feel down… My wife Christine has been my rock and greater motivator; without her, I would not be enjoying the successes of life,” Steven De Nobrega has divulged. His inspiration is none other than his boss Harold Hopkinson, because of Hopkinson’s successes and his general character, he further divulged.
Now that he has been in the racing fraternity for a number of years, Steven DeNobrega says, he is sufficiently experienced to advise those who want to get into the sport. He is urging them not to give up. He says he had participated in a number of races, and for two straight years, he did not place.
“I never gave up, and now those who were laughing at me cannot even make a podium spot,” he declared.
On a lighter note, he says his favourite colour is red, and he loves a hot and spicy chicken curry, whether with rice, puri or roti.
We extend sincere best wishes to this remarkable young man as he competes in the “Clash of Champions” race card today.
