Young Gunter a MTB name to watch

Stanford Lake College grade 12 learner Gunther Katzke was one of the riders selected to represent South Africa in the Junior Men’s cross country MTB race at the World Championships in Italy last weekend. He was the only cyclist from Limpopo to be part of the South African contingent competing at the World Championships. The South African team also included three of Gunther’s Insect Sciencesponsored teammates – Keagan Bontekoning, Danielle Strydom, and Arno du Toit. Gunther competed in the SA Cup XCO series in South Africa earlier this year, earning himself second place overall and enough UCI points to rank second in South Africa in the Junior Men’s category. This is Katzke’s first competition overseas. He said the learning was immense, providing him with invaluable experience on the international circuit. “The cross-country track was comprised of a 4km circuit with a tough 190m of elevation gain. “From stones and roots to uphills and fast, adrenaline-pumping sections, the course was set to test the riders in every way.” ALSO READ: Insect Science trio conquers the Akkedis  Katzke said he had a good start, but the competition was tough and he had to work hard to push through to the end. “Racing at this level is a whole different ball game to what we are used to in South Africa. “The competition is on another level and the course is much more intense and requires a lot more skill. By competing at this level I have gained a lot of experience and I can’t wait for the next race.” In the Men’s Elite XCO race, South Africa’s Alan Hatherly finished an impressive 8th overall, and Gunther’s Insect Science teammate, Arno du Toit, finished in a commendable 56th, ahead of fellow South African, Matthew Beers. Keagan Bontekoning and Danielle Strydom also finished in their respective categories, gaining valuable experience along the way. In the Downhill category, as the oldest contender in his race, South African Greg Minnaar won the World Championships, bringing home yet another extraordinary title. Following the World Championships, Arno du Toit will move across to Switzerland, where he will compete in an international UCI Cross Country event under the Insect Science banner before travelling home.