Hilma Nalupe 

The Omaruru Motocross (MX) track roared to life this past weekend as it hosted the seventh leg of the Namibian Motocross Nationals, delivering a weekend of unforgettable racing and heartfelt moments. 

Before the first gate dropped, the motocross family united in an emotional show of solidarity for Leon van Wyk, a fellow MX dad facing serious medical challenges. Riders from every class took part in a touching support lap. Leading the procession was van Wyk’s son, Duhan van Wyk, on his 65cc, with a train of riders stretching across the track in a moment that moved parents, riders and spectators. 

Once the racing began, the action on track was just as powerful. The Omaruru club spiced things up with cash prizes for holeshot winners in the 50cc, 65cc, 85cc and 125cc classes, sparking fierce starts. Leander Metzger stole the spotlight by claiming five of the six holeshots in the 85cc and 125cc races. 

The Veterans class delivered thrilling excitement as brothers Olaf and Sigi Pack went head-to-head. Olaf took an early lead before disaster struck both riders, Sigi’s bike seized while Olaf battled a flat tyre. In the end, Olaf walked away with the overall win, shaking up the standings. 

The weekend also marked breakthrough moments for several riders. Melanize Oberholzer celebrated her first-ever women’s podium, Carter Bouwer stood tall with his first 65cc win of the season and newcomer Kevin Harmse made a statement with a Clubmans victory. In the King of the Dirt category, Jarno Metzger claimed third place, just behind Björn Bierbrauer in second and Mark Sternagel in first. 

Despite tough winds and scorching heat, riders in the 65cc and 125cc classes kept fans on edge, proving once again that in motocross every lap counts and nothing is guaranteed. 

Reflecting on the event, Gallina Motocross Committee secretary Elzaan du Plessis said: “One of the biggest highlights was definitely the support lap for Leon van Wyk, which showed the unity of our motocross family, but the weekend also stood out for the surprises and close competition in nearly every class.” 

With dramatic podium shifts, new names breaking through and a community standing shoulder to shoulder, Omaruru MX Track gave Namibia’s motocross family a weekend to remember. 

-hilmanalupe@gmail.com