The African Continental Track Cycling Championships came to a successful conclusion in Pietermaritzburg on Saturday.
Following four days of intense racing, William Newman, president of the Confederation of African Cycling’s Track Commission, declared the event a huge success and hopes that the sport can grow throughout the continent © craigdutton.com
“We are very impressed with the way things have panned out,” said William Newman, President of the Confederation of African Cycling’s Track Commission.
“The racing has been of a high standard, despite a relatively small entry and few nations from elsewhere in Africa.”
Newman said the future of the Continental Track Championships was promising, despite this year’s event marking the first time since 2001 that they had been held.
“There is some work to be done, but we are prepared to roll up our sleeves and do it, and make sure that we continue to provide these opportunities for our riders.”
With valuable International Cycling Union (UCI) points on offer at the Championships, Newman said the event had provided track cycling on the continent with a welcome boost.
“The end-goal is to develop the discipline in Africa, and to give opportunities for Olympic qualification.
“I’m impressed with track cycling in Africa. It is so inspiring to know that the work done is being appreciated by the riders,” he said.
Newman also said he was pleased to see strong showings from women cyclists from other African countries.
“I believe that women’s cycling has to receive special focus, and we must continue trying to develop the discipline worldwide and specifically in Africa.”
Newman said he would like to see a further increase in spectator numbers at track cycling events.
“It is really a great spectator sport and we need to do a little more work in terms of marketing it. I urge people to come along and see track cycling and they will be pleasantly surprised by how entertaining it is.”
Go to African Continental Track Cycling Championships for event results.
