South African Formula Atlantic 1977

Champion Ian Scheckter went into 1977 as overwhelming favourite to retain his title. His dominance during 1976 had secured him a seat in the March F1 and he would have a new works-supported March 77B for the 1977 South African season. Also in March 77Bs were Ralt refugee Roy Klomfass and a guest driver, the British F3 star Rupert Keegan. Chevron had also organised a guest driver for their new B39, the Canadian and IMSA Formula Atlantic champion Gilles Villeneuve who, like Scheckter and Keegan, was tipped for a F1 ride in 1977. Chevron's local representation was led by Tony Martin in a second B39.

Scheckter's performances against the highly-rated Villeneuve and Keegan were hugely impressive, winning each of the opening three races from pole, and despite needing to miss several races because of his F1 commitments, he tied up the title with two races to spare. Roy Klomfass continued to impress in his March and such was the dominance of the 77B that two more were sold, to Alex Blignaut for Nols Nieman and to Bobby Scott.

The races

15 Jan 1977 > Datsun Summer Races at Roy Hesketh

29 Jan 1977 > Highveld "100" at Kyalami

05 Feb 1977 > Goldfields "100" at Welkom

19 Feb 1977 > Cape South Easter Trophy at Killarney

19 Mar 1977 > Scribante Summer Trophy at Aldo Scribante

30 Apr 1977 > Brandkop Trophy

11 Jun 1977 > Republic Day Trophy at Kyalami

26 Jun 1977 > Rhodesian Grand Prix at Donnybrook

20 Aug 1977 > Goldfields Trophy at Welkom

05 Sep 1977 > Natal Spring Trophy at Roy Hesketh

01 Oct 1977 > Rand Spring Trophy at Kyalami

15 Oct 1977 > False Bay "100" at Killarney

1977 South African Formula Atlantic Championship table