The GO!Durban Academy KwaMashu site was filled to capacity with local and international spectators witnessing the 2024 Velosolutions Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Pump Track World Championships Finals on 9 November.

This prestigious international event brought together the best cyclists from more than 20 countries with 60 international riders and four local cyclists participating. The atmosphere was electric, with the competitive riders showcasing thrilling performances and demonstrating their best skills on the Velosolutions pump track.

The championships featured challenging pump track courses for both men and women with the Top 16, Top 8, and finals stages. In the men’s category, Ryan Gilchrist from Australia received the World Championship title, with AJ Donald also from Australia in second place and Alec Bob from the United States of America taking third place.

For the women’s final, Sabina Košárková from the Czech Republic took the World Champion title with Nadine Aeberhard from Switzerland coming in second, and Vineta Petersone from Slovakia in third place. Košárková said: “My strategy was to stay consistent; I was putting really solid rounds in to break under 19 seconds. I was training a lot more than the last two years – I knew what was missing was the mental aspect so I stayed really calm during the races. To hear the Czech anthem on the podium and get my rainbow stripes was very special. I still can’t believe I’m world champion!”

For locals, one of the most encouraging aspects of the UCI Pump Track World Championship were the community-based cycling races that were hosted a week prior to the main event. Through these Township Series Mhlengi Gogo, Thuthukani Sphelele Qwabe, Lefati Mzimela, and Lithemba Buthelezi from the KwaDabeka GO!Durban Academy secured their spot and qualified  to compete at the Velosolutions UCI Pump Track World Championships Finals event.

Nineteen-year-old Mzimela joined the GO!Durban Academy in 2016. “I was 11 when I registered with the Academy. I didn’t know much about cycling; the coaches taught me from the basics and I gradually improved my skill throughout the years. I’ve cycled on a mountain track and pump track. The Academy has given me an opportunity to participate in various races throughout the years.The UCI Championships Finals has been one of my biggest opportunities and I am grateful to the Academy and the coaches.”