It is almost unthinkable that a province with unprecedented cycling potential, and which annually produces a South African champion, does not host a championship.

Money stands in the way of the championships.

The acting president of the Mpumalanga Cycling Union, Mr Hendrik Wagener, said hosting the championships costs around R40 000, money they don’t have.
If there is no championship, a Mpumalanga team will not be selected.

Mr Wagener says cyclists will have to compete on their own as individuals in the South African Championships.

The news was met with shock from cycling ranks, with concerns that it would dampen the enthusiasm of young cycling talent in the province in particular.

Mpumalanga also has in Cobus Fourie and Dan Cronje not only some of the best veteran cyclists in the country but South African champions.

In the meantime, it is hoped that a sponsor will come forward to perhaps host the championships in Middelburg.
Badplaas was the host last year.

• The Mpumalanga Cycling Union will hold its annual meeting on 5 November at 10:00 at Badplaas.

Vacant positions are those of president, MTB director, road cycling director, and transformation and development director.

If there is a club that wants to host the Mpumalanga Championships, they must call Mr Wagener on 082 741 1514.