Ross conquers the Roof
Being one of the youngest participants at this year’s Roof of Africa race did not stop local resident Ross Blackwell from making his mark.
The EXPRESS caught up with the 17-year-old lad, who shared his experience of the race held in Maseru, Lesotho.
He competed in the Gold category of the race, which is the longest and has the toughest route, with 425 kilometres needing to be completed.
The race, which has been dubbed the mother of hard enduro racing, saw 36 competitors from abroad taking part.
Ross said although he had a hard time training and getting ready for the race, he managed to complete the race.
“I was writing my exams while preparing for the race and never imagined that it would go so well for me, but I am glad I competed in this year’s race,” he added.
The grade 11 pupil at St John’s College said his highlight of the race was meeting experienced racers from around the world.
“These are people I watch on television and look up to as role models. Seeing them in person was the best thing for me. Completing the race was also a highlight for me, as I competed on a 125 bike which is a more inferior kind,” he added.
Ross said his love for racing started when he was six years old.
He said, “My father bought me a bike for my birthday and since then I have not looked back.”
He said if he is not at school or racing professionally, he will be spotted training and boxing.
Ross belongs to Kargo Racing and his team manager, Nick Van den Berg, said the team was proud of his composure and performance.
After completing his studies, Ross said he wants to get into professional racing.
Van den Berg encouraged racing fans to follow Ross on social media.
“Keep sending messages of support when he travels to compete or just to find updates on where he is in his career,” he said.
Contact Ross on Twitter, @Ross_Blackwell.
For team updates, visit @Kargoracing and Kargo Racing on Facebook.
