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Wild footage shows SA Formula Vee driver’s car flipping multiple times at The Bend

A young driver’s campaign to return to racing has struck a chord with fans after a terrifying on-track moment at The Bend.

A violent high-speed crash at The Bend Motorsport Park has left a SA Formula Vee driver’s car destroyed and his racing future in doubt.

Marco Lima-Marques was competing in Round 4 of the State Championship on Saturday, when he lost control during Race 1 and rolled several times in a sickening accident caught on camera.

Miraculously, the young driver walked away unscathed — but his car wasn’t so lucky.

The damage was so severe the vehicle was deemed a complete write-off, and the cost of repairs or replacement is beyond reach without outside help.

Formula Vee driver, Marco Lima-Marques, had a devastating accident at Round 4 of the State Championship at The Bend Motorsport Park. Picture: Facebook
Formula Vee driver, Marco Lima-Marques, had a devastating accident at Round 4 of the State Championship at The Bend Motorsport Park. Picture: Facebook

Now, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help get Marco back on track.

The fundraiser, started on Thursday, is seeking $20,000 to cover the cost of a replacement vehicle, safety equipment and essential tools to continue competing.

So far, just over $500 has been raised.

Formula Vee driver, Marco Lima-Marques, had a devastating accident at Round 4 of the State Championship at The Bend Motorsport Park. Picture: Facebook
Formula Vee driver, Marco Lima-Marques, had a devastating accident at Round 4 of the State Championship at The Bend Motorsport Park. Picture: Facebook

In the heartfelt post accompanying the campaign, it was written the crash had delivered a massive financial blow to a passionate privateer who lives and breathes the sport.

“The cost of motorsport is a reality few truly understand,” the post reads.

“For a privateer driver like Marco, every race represents both incredible opportunity and incredible financial risk.”

“This includes replacing the car, ensuring safety gear is up to standard, and providing the necessary tools and support to return to competition.”

Formula Vee driver, Marco Lima-Marques, came away unscathed. Picture: Facebook
Formula Vee driver, Marco Lima-Marques, came away unscathed. Picture: Facebook

Lima-Marques has built a reputation in South Australia’s grassroots motorsport scene as a determined and skilled competitor.

The GoFundMe page read that with the community’s help, he can continue to chase his dream of racing at the highest level.

“No contribution is too small, and every bit of support brings Marco closer to realising his goal,” the post said.

Video footage of the crash and the moments before impact show the full force of the accident — a sobering reminder of the risks involved in motorsport.

The GoFundMe page is now live, with organisers calling on motorsport fans to share the campaign and donate if they can.

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Original URL: https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/wild-footage-shows-sa-formula-vee-drivers-car-flipping-multiple-times-at-the-bend/news-story/30ff458108c0bef896712ab95fac15d2