Organisers of the Nedbank XCO National Cross-Country championship set for the weekend at the IJG Trails in Kleine Kuppe in Windhoek say preparations are progressing well.
The event, organised by the Namibia Cycling Federation (NCF), is expected to attract over 100 local cyclists.
NCF’s Elanor Grassow said the race will see Namibian national champion jerseys and titles being awarded to the first-place finishers in various categories, namely the E-MTB XC women and men, the XCC (short track) women and men, the XCO junior women and men, the XCO U/23 women and men, as well as the XCO elite women and men.
“National championships determine the best cyclists in various disciplines and age categories within the country. Crowning national champions not only recognise their achievements but inspires other cyclists to strive for excellence,” Grassow said.
She added that the riders complete a specified number of laps of a track, depending on their age category.
The men’s and women’s elite defending champions, Monique du Plessis and Alex Miller, are expected to defend their titles.
Miller said he was looking forward to defending his national jersey and is currently in top form, having won his last two races over the past two weeks.
“I am happy to defend my title and look forward to wearing my national jersey at international competitions. Training has been good and I am fit. I am fond of the track and I need to avoid any mistakes and stick to the game plan,” Miller said.
Meanwhile, Du Plessis said her preparations have not been the best, as she has struggled with a slight injury and sickness lately.
“I am hoping to defend my title. I was off the bike the whole of last week due to sickness. I don’t have high expectations this weekend but I will give it my best shot,” she said.
When asked about her sentiments on the races, Nedbank Namibia spokesperson Selma Kaulinge said it is going to be an exciting weekend of cycling in the city.
“We are thrilled to have the races back in Windhoek after their stint in Swakopmund in 2023. Our support goes beyond financial backing; it’s a reflection of our core values as a corporate dedicated to being money experts who do good. By championing events like these, we are fostering a sense of community and camaraderie while promoting health and wellness,” she said.
Short course races for the U/18 boys and girls will kick off tomorrow afternoon, with the UCI Short Course for Open Men and Women also scheduled for tomorrow afternoon.
The rest of the races will kick off on Saturday. The elite men and women will cycle six and seven laps, respectively.