R-M’s Paint or Die Trying 2024 Competition gathered up some of South Africa’s top spray-painting talents at BASF’s state-of-the-art Training Centre in Midrand on the weekend of the 15th of November. Sponsored by RSB Autogroup and Industrial, this two-day showdown wasn’t just a test of technical skill—it was a showcase of creativity, precision, and resilience under pressure. From sanding to colour-matching under the most exacting standards, our chosen professionals went head-to-head in one of the industry’s most thrilling and high-stakes events to date!
Participants were expected to complete several complicated tasks on Day One, including sanding, priming, and respraying vehicle panels to exacting standards. Day two featured even tougher challenges, such as matching specific paint shades of off-white and red without exact swatches, requiring an acute eye for detail and technical precision. The judging criteria focused on skill, adaptability, and strict adherence to BASF’s high safety standards. Contestants also had to tackle deliberately ambiguous instructions, testing their ability to think on their feet and problem-solve under pressure. Even with the high stakes, the competition engendered friendly rivalry and camaraderie, with participants forming friendships and sharing knowledge.
By a razor-thin margin of just 0.5%, Jayson Holtzhausen won the coveted Paint or Die Trying Trophy and a unique SATA X5500 Spray Gun. Runner-up Ntombi Makhele called her presence among such skilled competitors a personal triumph, as did Jayson. While there could only be one winner, no one left empty-handed as each finalist received tools and equipment to help them advance professionally.
More than just a contest, the event celebrated the spray-painting industry’s artistry, efficiency, and potential. The R-M Paint or Die Trying competition left contestants with new techniques, renewed passion, and lasting professional connections, shining light on the transformative impact of competitions of this nature.
Relive the excitement and intensity of the Paint or Die Trying 2024 Competition by diving into our exclusive video coverage of the event. Witness the precision, creativity, and camaraderie that made this contest unforgettable. From the challenges faced to the crowning moment of victory. Explore our video below to experience the prowess of South Africa’s top spray-painting talents in action!
