Young racer is on the right track
DAINFERN – November was busy weekend for young Matthew Meyer after he won a regional championship title in muddy and rainy conditions.
A Dainfern College learner rode his way to first place in the 2020 Gauteng Xcross Country Club (GXCC) Northern Region Cross Country Championships.
Grade 4 learner, Matthew Meyer took part in the 50cc class championships which consisted of five rounds and took place around the country. Initially there were meant to be eight rounds in the championships, however, this was reduced to five due to the pandemic.
Matthew, who was seven when he first started racing, said he was thrilled after winning the club and regional championships. “The last race was very tough. It had rained for two days and the track was super muddy,” he explained.
“Winning the last race to win the overall championship was also a great achievement, especially since quite a few of my competitors didn’t finish the race.”
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the third round of the championships only took place later in September, six months after the second round. “During lockdown last year, I rode my bicycle and swam to stay fit. We have a small secret track where we did some training,” added the nine-year-old. In the past year, Matthew has taken part in 28 races, won eight and has two championship titles under his belt.
Keeping up with his riding schedule and schoolwork is something he has had to manage efficiently. “I usually ride twice a week, on a Wednesday afternoon and again over the weekend if we are not racing. My parents are very strict and I have to have my homework done before I can go riding.”
A dream that Matthew has in his motocross career is to compete in the Dakar Rally once he has his driver’s licence. He is looking forward to the next competition. “The first round of the 2021 GXCC starts in February and I can’t wait. I will be competing in the club and regional races. I am also hoping to compete in the National Cross-Country series on my new GasGas 65cc.”
