The much anticipated Nedbank XC 1-2020 MTB event

On 20 June 2020, the Rock and Rut MTB club hosted the long awaited Nedbank XC 1 race at IJG Farm Windhoek. The cool weather did not deter mountain bike enthusiasts from registering online and signing up at the event. The excitement could be seen in the eyes of the young mountain bikers and in the way they listened attentively to the race director to start the race. The signing on at the entrance, completion of the attendance register and racing progressed throughout the day with ease.

Michelle Vorster dominated the elite women’s category, increasing her lead with every lap and winning the race comfortably. Vorster will be flying the Namibian flag high in mountain biking at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021. In the elite men’s race, spectators could not identify a distinct favorite since Tristan de Lange and Alex Miller kept on alternating the lead with each passing lap. It came down to a closely contested sprint finish that kept the limited spectators on their feet and gasping for air. Alex Miller crossed the finish line first followed closely by Tristan de Lange in second place. Alex and Tristan remain hopeful to secure a spot for the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021. These young men will be participating at regional and international races throughout the year.

The Rock and Rut committee would like to thank our sponsors;

for their generous support. The committee would also like to thank all members and participants for upholding the COVID-19 regulations. We hope to see you all at the Nedbank XC 2 race scheduled for 4 July 2020 in Windhoek.