National Cross Country and XCC Short Track Cycling Championships

The National Cross Country and XCC Short Track Cycling Championships will be held at Thaba Trails from 14-16 April 2023, featuring some of the most skilled and experienced cyclists in the country. The event is set to be a thrilling competition, with Candice Lill and Amy Wakefield leading the charge for the Elite Women, and Alan Hatherly and Philip Buys tipped as favourites for the Elite men’s category.

The National Cross-Country Olympic (XCO) and Cross-Country Short Track (XCC) Cycling Championships, are a prestigious event that brings together the best cross-country cyclists in South Africa. The competition is known for its challenging terrain, with steep climbs and rocky descents that test the skill and endurance of the riders.

The competition will be fierce, and spectators can expect to see some of the most skilled and talented riders in action.

In the Elite men’s category, Alan Hatherly and Philip Buys are a force to be reckoned with. Alan’s list of achievements includes a bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the first overall winner in the 2022 UCI XCC Short Track. While Buys, who has represented South Africa at the Olympics, is an experienced rider, with an impressive record and recent win at the African Category at the 2023 Absa Cape Epic.

“We’re looking forward to a thrilling race this Saturday, with top athletes competing for the National Championship title,” said (Paola Damilano), head of the Mountain Bike Commission. “Candice and Alan are both experienced racers who have shown incredible skills in the past, and we can expect nothing less than an exciting and challenging competition. We encourage anyone who loves cycling to come out and watch the event, we can’t wait to see who comes out on top.”

Sunday, 16 April Cycling Enthusiasts will have the chance to witness history in the making, as the first ever, XCC Short Track National Championships will be held at Thaba Trails. This new discipline gained popularity in recent years. The course is typically shorter, only 1 – 1.5km than the traditional XCO course, with the full race lasting 20 minutes plus one lap.  it’s a high-tempo blast that’s fierce for riders but super fun for spectators. 

The event promises to be an exhilarating experience for both Elite competitors and spectators alike.