Thrilling start to FNB Schools MTB League

The FNB Schools Mountain Bike (MTB) League kicked off to an exciting start on Saturday at the IJG Trails in Windhoek. This follows three successful Coastal League events that were held in January and February. The League continues to focus on developing cycling as a sport within the country, with many of the country’s top cyclists having started as aspiring young mountain bikers.The day welcomed plenty of seasoned school riders as well as new participants across all age categories with over 100 riders from over 25 schools across Windhoek taking part. While some riders were absent due to their participation in the Cape Town Cycle Tour last Sunday, the races still showcased an impressive turnout. The race kicked off with the U14, U16 and U18 boys and girls. Roger Surén (U18 boys), Micah Chase (U14 boys) and Qara Volschenk (U14 girls) all recently won their respective age categories at the South Africa Cup cross-country at Paarl in the Western Cape and continued their winning streaks at this event. Making it a family double, Nicole Surén won the U16 girls, with Julius Braun taking the U16 boys’ event and Rose-Marie Thiel the U18 girls’ event. Reflecting on the race, Chase commented: “The track was super fun, more technical given the recent rains which had washed out some corners and created more rocky, twisty track features.”The excitement continued with the U12 and U6 races, where young competitors were faced with an unexpected twist – a horse on the track during the first lap! The unexpected encounter added to the adventure, forcing them to turn back and ask for help, making for a classic Namibian trail riding experience.Overall, the morning of racing was a resounding success, set against the backdrop of the beautifully green and lush Windhoek bushveld. The winners in all age races on Saturday:Girls under 6 (three laps): Sanmari Esterhuyse (WAP).Boys under 6 (three laps): Reuben Eloff (Waloff Academy).Girls under 8 (three laps): Emma Cuff (WAP).Boys under 8 (four laps): Logan Hinz (Whk Gym).Girls under 10 (four laps): Amy Lowings (DSW).Boys under 10 (three laps): Dennis Bassingthwaighte (DHPS).Girls under 12 (three laps): Linn Lambert (Whk Gym).Boys under 12 (four laps): Cody Heigan (Whk Gym).Girls under 14 (three laps): Qara Volschenk (St Paul’s).Boys under 14 (four laps): Micah Chase (St George’s).Girls under 16 (four laps): Nicole Surén (Whk Gym).Boys under 16 (five laps): Julius Braun (DHPS).Girls under 18 (five laps): Rose-Marie Thiel (Whk Gym).Boys under 18 (six laps): Roger Surén (Whk Gym).About the LeagueThe FNB Schools Mountain Bike (MTB) League is a proven successful initiative aimed at promoting cycling among school students, encouraging them to participate in mountain biking in a supportive environment. Dates for the next events at IJG Trials are 26 April, 12/13 July, 9 August and the national final on 30 August. In-between are also events at Swakopmund (3 May) and Stampriet (26 July).The league focuses on designing tracks that are accessible and enjoyable for riders of varying skill levels, ensuring that the experience is encouraging rather than intimidating. The league continues to serve as a crucial platform for young cyclists to develop their skills, gain confidence, and compete at a high level. With more races lined up, the FNB Schools MTB League remains committed to nurturing the next generation of Namibian cyclists, inspiring future champions one race at a time.

Thrilling start to FNB Schools MTB League

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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Thrilling start to FNB Schools MTB League

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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