Namibia Cycling Federation in collaboration with the Rock & Rut Cycling Club is gearing up to host the 2024 Nedbank Namibia XC1 Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) C1 and UCI Junior Series XCO races this Saturday at the IJG Trails in Kleine Kuppe. This event marks the second round of the five races in the Nedbank XC series and is the sole race where cyclists will accumulate International Cycling Union (UCI) points.
Anticipation is high as between 140 and 150 local and international cyclists are expected to compete for UCI points at the event. Chairperson of Rock & Rut, Hanso Diehl, expressed confidence in the preparations, stating that the event is set to attract even more local participants. Diehl highlighted the significance of UCI points for elite, under-23, and junior racers to partake in international events, emphasizing the importance of the event in elevating the standard of mountain biking in Namibia to international levels.
Diehl assured that both local and South African commissaires overseeing the event are UCI-certified, ensuring adherence to UCI specifications and raising the bar for organizers and racers alike. He encouraged local cycling enthusiasts to support the event and cheer on local cyclists as they compete against international contenders from South Africa and Lesotho. The challenging track, complete with technical elements like rock gardens, jumps, and steep climbs, promises exhilarating entertainment for spectators.
Last year’s elite men’s and women’s races were won by Namibia’s Alex Miller and South Africa’s Candice Lill, respectively. Miller, the local hero, is set to defend his title after a recent victory at the Nedbank XC0, the first race in Rock & Rut’s series this year. A highlight of the event will be the anticipated battle between Namibia’s Daniel Hahn and South Africa’s Massimiliano Ambrosi, who secured second place at last year’s Nedbank XC1 and the 2023 African Championships. The competition is expected to be fierce, with Michael Foster, the U23 men’s African Champion, also joining a strong field of competitors from Namibia and South Africa.
Nedbank Namibia Communications and Public Relations Manager, Selma Kaulinge, expressed excitement about the upcoming races, emphasizing the significance of the event in nurturing homegrown cycling talent and providing a platform for cyclists to showcase their skills and compete internationally.
The races will kick off at 07h30, with elite, under-23, and junior women’s categories starting at 08h45, followed by the men’s elite, under-23, and juniors at 11h50. Additionally, the men under 16, sub-veterans, veterans, and masters will commence their races at 10h15.
Cycling enthusiasts and spectators alike are encouraged to witness the thrilling action at the 2024 Nedbank Namibia XC1 UCI C1 races, promising a day filled with excitement and intense competition.
