The fifth round of the MSA MX National series unfolded at Thunder Valley in Pietermaritzburg, delivering a day filled with both triumphs and challenges. The track, recently revamped to include tighter sections, challenging ruts, and notable elevation changes, provided a new set of obstacles even for the most seasoned riders. The day began with a chilly morning, which gradually warmed up, setting the stage for an intense day of racing. A strong turnout of 105 riders, cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of locals, highlighted the dedication and passion within the South African motocross community.
50cc Class
The youngest competitors kicked off the day with thrilling performances. Riley Geldenhuys (#1) dominated both heats on his KTM, taking the overall win. Joshua-Zion Naude (#34), also on a KTM, secured second place, while Trey Dean (#117) rounded out the podium in third. Luan Jordaan (#20), Travis Hart (#16), and Alessandro Green (#141) completed the top six. The parents of these young riders played vital roles, stepping in as marshals, mechanics, and supporters.
65cc Class
Brody Bircher (#30) showcased his talent with a commanding overall win on his KTM. Ross Mackenzie (#85) on a Gas Gas claimed second place, followed by Rayden Woolls (#345) on a Husqvarna in third. Rhys Carl Wentzel (#404), Troy Ryan Wentzel (#63), and Coby Kretzmann (#15) rounded out the top six in this competitive class.
85cc Class
The 85cc class delivered high-octane action, with Trenton Kretzmann (#94) clinching the overall win on his KTM. Evan Frost (#28) put up a strong challenge, finishing second, while Cruz Martin (#418) claimed third on his Husqvarna. The rest of the top six included Lleyton Botha (#63), Branden van Wyk (#777), and Cameron Stuckie (#73).
125cc and Supermini Classes
Kade van Deventer (#16) emerged victorious, taking the overall win on his Gas Gas. Trey Cox (#37) finished second on his KTM, with Tristan Durow (#444) completing the top three. Matthew Correia (#200), Jean Visser (#247), and Aiden Henley (#51) rounded out the top six in this fiercely competitive class.
Ladies Class
In the Ladies class, Leah Heygate (#176) and Kayla Raaff (#1) battled fiercely, with Heygate ultimately taking the overall win on her KTM. Raaff secured second, with Mienka Cawood (#202) finishing third. The top six were completed by Zoe Botha (#128), Ivana Venter (#32), and Katelyn Pretorius (#170).
MX2 Class
The MX2 class offered plenty of excitement, with intense battles throughout the pack. Cameron Durow (#1) claimed the overall win on his KTM, followed by Luke Grundy (#450) and Ricky Raaff (#25) in second and third, respectively. Jayden Proctor (#81), Mark Carty (#24), and Jordan van Wyk (#747) rounded out the top six.
MX3 Class
Dean Wheeler (#135) took top honors with the overall win on his Yamaha, followed by Levi Doherty (#99) in second and Kyle Bradford (#168) in third.
MX Vets Class
Morne Janse van Rensburg (#144) dominated the MX Vets class, securing the overall win on his KTM. Sheldon Watkins (#757) and Jonathan du Plooy (#15) completed the podium, with Warrick Peeters (#58), Brett Field (#22), and Jonathan Hubbard (#121) rounding out the top six.
MX Senior Support Class
Brandon Wheeler (#73) claimed the overall win on his KTM, with Astin Allin (#36) and Sean Strunkheide (#100) taking second and third, respectively. Blane Gaugain (#67), Steve Baker (#74), and Kyle Davey (#122) completed the top six.
MX1 Class
Cameron Durow (#1) once again demonstrated his prowess, securing the overall win on his KTM. Jayden Proctor (#81) finished second on his Yamaha, with Davin Cocker (#87) rounding out the podium on his Husqvarna. Brad Cox (#34), Marco De Vrye (#42), and Johan Vogelesang (#5) rounded out the top six in the premier class.
The motocross community now turns its attention to Round 6, set to take place on 31 August at Zone 7 in Cape Town. The anticipation builds as the season progresses, with riders and teams eager to continue the fight for championship glory.
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