The City of Durban is gearing up to host the prestigious 2024 Velosolutions Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Pump Track World Championships Finals, which will take place at the GO!Durban Academy, KwaMashu site, on 9 November 2024.
The event marks the tail end of the 2024 season and is set to bring together the world’s top riders from approximately 20 countries to compete for the World Championship Title.
The first ever to be hosted in a township, the KwaMashu GO!Durban Academy Park was chosen over Cape Town.
Established in 2016, the GO!Durban Cycle Academy features a world-class Velosolutions asphalt pump track right in the heart of KwaMashu.
Velosolutions pump tracks are both playgrounds and training facilities for bikers, skateboarders and scooter riders of all skill levels. Asphalted tracks are hotspots for all kinds of riders, who seek a fun and action-filled sports experience.
EThekwini Transport Authority Acting Head, Nelisiwe Zama, said being chosen to host an event of such magnitude is demonstration of the high standard infrastructure that the GO!Durban Academy has to offer.
“An event of this nature does not only place us on the world map in relation to the cycling sport but has great impact on local tourism, with 60 international riders, accompanied by their teams, and fans staying in Durban. This influx of international visitors will help put Durban on the global tourism map as a 'must visit' destination in South Africa,” Zama said.
The event is also set to benefit youth from townships, as various community-based cycling races will be hosted in the week leading up to the finale.
The top four of the community bike series, including the men and women elite category, will officially qualify for the UCI Pump Track World Championships on Saturday.
“The two winners will receive free hotel accommodation, like all other international winners. The second, third and fourth placed riders will be invited to join the afterparty, rider's briefing, welcome presentation, and will be transported daily from their township to the locations,” Zama said.
Tickets for the UCI Pump Track World Championships finals will be sold at the gate at R50 per person. – SAnews.gov.za
