South Africa is set to host Africa’s only UCI World Pump Track Championships Qualifier on the 13th of April 2025, offering riders from across the country and the continent a rare chance to compete for a place in the World Championship Finals. This year, the prestigious event will take place at Generation Schools Sandown Institute in Cape Town, marking the first time the qualifier has been hosted in the Western Cape, following previous editions in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
With only one qualifier held in Africa this year, the event is a key moment for South African riders looking to make their mark on the global stage. Designed by Velosolutions and its CEO, Claudio Caluori, the Generation Schools Sandown track is known for its tight, technical layout, making it one of the most challenging pump tracks in the world. Riders will have to navigate multiple transfer options and challenging “wind engines” that test both speed and skill, ensuring a thrilling race for competitors and spectators alike.
Some of South Africa’s best talent will be competing, including Olympian BMX racer Miyanda Maseti and former World Cup finalist, Chile’s Sebastian Mendez. They will be joined by top BMX, enduro, and freestyle riders from across the country, all battling it out to secure a place at the World Championships.
“For us at Generation Schools, hosting an international event of this calibre is an incredible opportunity to inspire our students and the broader community,” says Jevron Epstein, CEO of Generation Schools. “It aligns perfectly with our vision of providing world-class experiences that broaden horizons, instil a love for sports, and showcase the power of perseverance and dedication.”
For aspiring young athletes, this event represents more than just a competition – it’s a chance to prove themselves on an international stage. In 2024, a development rider from KwaMashu in KZN made history by qualifying for the World Championship Final, demonstrating that South African riders have the talent and determination to compete at the highest level. With over 100 competitors expected, the stakes are high, and the action promises to be intense.
Spectators can look forward to an exciting day of world-class racing, complemented by a festival-like atmosphere with food vendors, a dedicated viewing area, and family-friendly entertainment. “Whether you’re a die-hard pump track fan or simply looking for an exhilarating experience, the event promises nonstop action,” says Epstein.
Thomas Hendry, local event organiser commented on the track saying, “ The Crosswind Pump Track at Generation Schools Sandown Institute is one of the most technically challenging in the world, requiring both speed and precision. This makes for an exciting qualifier where even the smallest mistake can cost valuable time. Riders will need to bring their A-game to secure a place in the World Championship Finals.”
Riders looking to compete can enter online through the official UCI World Pump Track Championships website. The event is open to both professional athletes and ambitious newcomers eager to test their skills against the best.
For more information and to register, click here.
Supplied by TLL Communications
