After starting his motor sport career in speedway, van der Vyver switched to cars in the early 1950s, participating in both circuit racing and hillclimbing.

He found success quickly, and by the end of the decade had established himself as one of the top drivers in the country.

[3] He had entered the World Championship 1962 South African Grand Prix, but had to withdraw after rolling and seriously damaging his new Lotus 24 the previous week in the 1962 Natal Grand Prix.

With the car repaired, he raced and won again in local events, but did not compete again in Formula One.

After this car was destroyed in a fire, van der Vyver retired from the sport.