The second annual XCC/XCO cycling race took place at Laerskool Selection Park on May 16, with 11 schools and 84 participants.

The event showcased the skills of young athletes in mountain biking with five categories. Mikayla Botha (13) from Laerskool Northmead in Benoni won the Sub Junior Girls category.

She told the Springs Advertiser that while she was happy with the win, she was also surprised, as there were riders ahead of her during the race.

“During the race, I kept thinking about what my coach said on focusing on the trail and also finishing the race no matter what,” said the young winner.

She shared that her teammates, coach and her family helped with the preparation for the race, which resulted in a win.

Laerskool Impala’s team manager, Carmen Grobler, praised the riders for their enthusiasm and passion during the recent cycling event, saying the team is still learning but making steady progress in only its second year.

Grobler said she was proud of all the riders who took part, whether they competed seriously or simply rode for enjoyment.

“I’m super proud. Some of them are here to race, others are here to just ride, and that’s the cool thing about cycling. Everyone can join, and everyone can participate, from the most serious rider to anyone who just wants to get started and start riding a bike,” she said.

One of the highlights for Grobler was seeing the learners enjoy themselves despite the cold weather conditions earlier in the day.

She added that for her, it’s important that the children have fun. Grobler explained that passion is one of the main qualities she looks for in young cyclists.

“Someone who has a passion for something that they do, even if they don’t have the skill, you can teach them the skill because they come with passion. Someone who has skill but doesn’t have any passion, you can do very little for them,” she said.

She also touched on some of the challenges faced by the team, particularly with regard to training and preparation.

“Children need their own parents to bring them to races, to aid them, to maintain their bikes and help them to train.

“In the current school setup, it’s very hard for us to really train and help children,” said Grobler, who clarified that she serves as the team manager rather than a coach.

According to Grobler, local events play an important role in developing young riders and exposing them to the sport.

“The children enjoy it. They get a little acknowledgement for it, so it’s always good. It feels like a sense of accomplishment for them,” she said.

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She explained that mountain biking requires both technical ability and fitness, with riders needing to learn how to navigate technical trails, brake properly, balance and overcome obstacles through regular practice.

Looking ahead, Grobler said the team hopes to continue improving throughout the season.

Race organiser Brian Style thanked the sponsors of the race, Stylish Plants, Vital Engineering & BGL Construction.

“A huge thank you to all the parents’ support in making the day a success,” said Style.