WATCH: Rylee races to world champs

THE future is bright for Westville 12-year-old Rylee van Heerden as she makes her mark in BMX racing. Rylee was introduced to cycling at a tender age by her teacher at Westville Pre-Primary, and she has never looked back. Today, she gears up for the upcoming UCI BMX World Championships in Glasgow, Scotland from August 3 to 13.

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Rylee is part of the Queensburgh BMX Club where she sharpens her cycling skills. Stephanie Berry of the club described BMX as a cycling sport that teaches exceptional bike-handling skills and is a great introduction for all cyclists who would like to take part in a safe and friendly environment.

“At the club, we encourage all cycling enthusiasts to come and ride for fun or competition, from age two and up, including adults of all ages. The kids get to enjoy the outdoors, make new friends and have some fun. BMX training with a social takes place every Friday at the track, and there are two training clinics per month on a Saturday,” she said.

Rylee is climbing the BMX ladder and has earned herself national and international accolades: Recognition for achieving a World 5 position in France in 2022; 2022 SA Champion (11–13 Girls); 2022 SA Cup Champion (11–13 Girls); SA Colours; KZN Colours; merit award for representing KZN A-Team in the Inter-Provincial BMX competition; recognition for being part of Team ABM which was placed 2nd in the team competition at the SA Cup Series; recipient of the Paul Breschi Award for the second year running. This floating trophy is awarded for ‘determination and enthusiasm for the sport of BMX racing’.

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Speaking to the Highway Mail, Raylee said she has been in love with the sport since she was introduced to it. Rylee was introduced by her teacher, Nozipho Ndlovu, who is very proud of her. “We were playing within the school’s premises when I taught them how to ride; it took me by surprise when I saw her grow in the sport over the years,” said Ndlovu.

Rylee’s mother, Chanel van Heerden, said she has always known that her daughter was more of an adventurous person. “We support her by making sure she keeps on track with her schoolwork while enjoying her sport,” she said.

Rylee is currently raising funds as she prepares to go to Scotland for the UCI BMX World Championship. The public is invited to show their support on Buckabudy: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/rylee-van-heerden-5511637574654891213.

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