More than 500 riders from across KZN descended on Umhlali Preparatory School on Sunday for the third leg of the prestigious KZN Cycle Lab Schools MTB Series.

Local riders Joshua Paul, Cameron Mackridge, Madison Bateson and Sophia Lombaard all won their age-group divisions and collected gold medals. Natalie Kluza earned silver, while Cody Maidman claimed bronze.

The event, which followed an XCO short-track format, once again showcased the North Coast’s dominance in youth mountain biking.

Joshua (17-18 boys) and Sophia (U14 girls), from Ashton International College Ballito, retained their yellow leaders’ jerseys after earlier victories at Waterfall College and Maritzburg College.

Joshua enjoyed racing in his hometown: “It was a busy day as I helped the Ballito DriveTrain Academy riders to sweep the field for some younger races, before I finished off with my own race,” he said.

“The course was quick and flat course, which made for a bunched and tactical race that came down to a four-man sprint. In the end, I was happy to take my third win.”

Sophia said mountain biking has taught her that strength isn’t just about speed: “It’s about staying focused, being resilient through tough climbs, and remembering to enjoy the ride.”

“The Cycle Lab Schools Series has challenged me, inspired me, and helped me grow with every race.”

Daniel Abdo also impressed, finishing fourth in the U14 boys’ division.

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The series, widely regarded as the premier inter-schools MTB league in the province, awards leaders’ jerseys to top-performing high school athletes after each race.

Madison (TES College), fresh off a sixth-place finish at the European MTB Championships in Sweden, returned to form by winning the 15-16 girls’ category.

The Ballito rider narrowly edged out Natalie (Curro Salt Rock), adding to her victory in the series opener.

In the boys’ 15-16 division, Cameron (Northwood) emerged victorious after a dramatic sprint finish against Cade Smith, with both riders collapsing over the line.

Cody (Curro Salt Rock), who had been in contention, slipped on sugarcane and landed in a ditch but still managed to secure bronze.

North Coast rider Luke Pretorius also delivered a strong performance, finishing fourth in the final race of the day in the 17-18 boys’ category.

The final leg of the series takes place at Howick High School on September 7, followed by the national finals at Piet Retief Hoërskool in Mpumalanga on October 4-5.

Chairman of KZN Schools Cycling, Andrew Mackinnon, praised another successful event.

“I want to thank all the sponsors and volunteers for making it possible, and to Umhlali Prep for hosting. Without them we could not hold this race.”

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