Local riders take on SA's best
With many of them participating for the first time in such a large and competitive event, the riders handled it with determination and pride.
Despite limited access to quality bikes and parts, they showed up with heart and delivered; as a team they won 15 medals.
'It was a huge achievement, and a powerful reminder of what young people can do when given a chance,' said coach Mvelo Ntombela, known as Cheeseboy.
The development programme was launched in 2008 by BMX riders and coaches Jason Nicole and Tyrone Johns. Their vision was to give children from surrounding communities a chance to enter the world of BMX and build skills, discipline, and opportunities through sport.
Also read: Step aboard Durban's maritime past at Port Natal Maritime Museum
Johns went on to race and represent SA internationally.
When the duo moved overseas, their legacy lived on through Ntombela who is now the coach.
Ntombela began as a rider in the same programme, rose to the position of team captain, and today serves as head coach and manager of the Giba Development Team.
Under his leadership, the programme has continued to grow and thrive, still backed by Giba Gorge Adventure Park, which has supported the team since day one.
The coach said the riders come from areas surrounding Giba Gorge, such as Dassenhoek, Itshelimnyama, KwaNdengezi, and other nearby communities outside of Pinetown.
'These areas are often underserved and lack access to sporting opportunities, especially a niche sport like BMX. This programme gives children from these communities a positive outlet, and a chance to achieve something extraordinary.
'We currently support around 18 development riders, ranging from ages 11 to 25. Some have just started, while others like junior star Sanele Shozi have been training for several years and are now competing at national level,' said Ntombela.
He added that they welcome aspiring riders, especially from local communities, to join the programme.
'Whether they've ridden a BMX before or not, we offer beginner sessions and coaching tailored to their level,' said the passionate coach, who was once a rising BMX athlete himself but put his racing career on pause in order to build and manage the team.
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