MIDVAAL – The 2025 South African National Road and Time Trial Championships, currently underway at Café du Cirque in Midvaal, has captivated cycling enthusiasts for a second consecutive year.

Thursday and Friday’s Time Trial Championships saw intense competition, showcasing world-class talent against the backdrop of Midvaal’s scenic cycling routes.

The event was marked by a stunning performance from Olympic bronze medallist Alan Hatherly, who, in his first year competing in road racing, clinched the South African Time Trial title.

Hatherley, now riding for the UCI world team Jayco AlUla, completed the 40km course in a blistering 47:50.77, averaging 51.4 km/h.

Former Tour de France rider Stefan de Bod, who last represented the UCI team EF Education–EasyPost, came second with a time of 51.0 km/h, while Gauteng’s own Brandon Downes finished in third.

In the women’s event, Lucy Young triumphed with a time of 44:52:62, averaging 44.1 km/h.

Hayley Preen came in second in a time of 46:55:43, while Zanri Rossouw rounded off the podium in a time of 47:19:45.

Young, who trains regularly in Midvaal, praised the area’s charm after her victory: “It’s such a beautiful part of Johannesburg. The greenery, animals, and endless fields make it a perfect place for cycling,” she said.

Midvaal’s open roads and minimal traffic make it a top destination for both amateur and elite cyclists.

Just an hour’s drive from OR Tambo International Airport, the area offers not only exceptional training conditions but also the opportunity to explore its natural beauty.

With more races scheduled for the weekend, Midvaal continues to establish itself as a cycling hotspot in Gauteng.

Cyclists and spectators alike can look forward to more thrilling races, with the road races taking place on Saturday and Sunday.