WINDHOEK: Farm Bergquell on the outskirts of Okahandja in the Otjozondjupa Region will on Saturday host the 2024 Nedbank Rock and Rut Cross Country (XC) Series, with exciting competition expected at the new venue.

The race is expected to attract around 100 riders in both the men’s and women’s elite, junior, veteran, sub-veteran, master, and grandmaster races. The race will also see young riders under 10 to under 16 starting with the first competitions.

Michael Hennes, a representative and organiser from Rock and Rut Mountain Bike Club, said the new venue was commissioned last year and is expected to give riders new challenges as they are unfamiliar with the route.

‘We are busy developing a new route at this private farm. We have already done a lot of work, and we feel it’s time we tested it. We will further develop it based on the feedback from the riders as time goes on,’ he said.

Hennes added that riders had a chance to test the new trails and the organisers were pleased with the feedback.

Meanwhile, A
nna Wucher, also a member of the organising team, said Farm Bergquell is collaborating with the Rock and Rut Mountain Bike Club to promote mountain biking in Namibia.

‘It is always tremendous fun to watch and a wonderful opportunity for riders to make new connections and friends within the sport. We’re all looking forward to crowning the winning relay team,’ Wucher said.

Nedbank Namibia’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, Selma Kaulinge said they are excited about this edition of the Nedbank Rock and Rut XC Series as it will feature a new route at a new venue.

‘I would like to applaud the organisers for going all out in developing our cyclists in various ways, which includes exposing them to new environments. At Nedbank Namibia, we believe in supporting initiatives that not only enrich our communities, but also inspire individuals to achieve their best,’ Kaulinge said.

The first race of the day will start at 09h00 with the marathon for men and women. The elite women’s race will be at 10h00 and
the men’s at 11h30.

Source: The Namibia News Agency