Miguel de Waal went the distance for South Africa at the Africa Motocross of Nations in Botswana. The Broadacres resident, who trains at Terra Topia Dirt Bike Club, Northern Farm, finished second overall in the MX lite class in the tournament at the end of August.
The excellent result in the 14-year-old’s first international race confirms he is the second fastest 85cc rider in Africa.
“It has to be the best race of my year if not my life so far,” De Waal said. “I really enjoyed the track and just the vibe of this whole event. The event took place over three days and there was loads of exciting and close racing.”
De Waal said that after putting ‘down some solid laps’ at the first practice he suffered a minor crash during qualifications. This left him starting at the 30th gate for the rest of the tournament.
It did not put him down though and he edged past some top riders to finish third in the first heat. The second heat went similarly, with De Waal having to overtake right from his difficult starting position to finish second.
During the third heat, De Waal misjudged a jump and landed on a braking bump, colliding with South African teammate, AJ Visagie.
“I was determined to gain my position back near the front and I did my best to do so but after pushing hard I finished just behind the Swaziland rider, Blake Young, in fifth place, to finish second place overall in the tournament.”
South Africa also won the tournament overall.
“I am so happy and thankful to everyone who made it possible for me this weekend. I have to say a massive well done to the organisers for putting on a great event and then to each rider and country for doing their best and putting on a great show.”
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