It was across the border and into the mountains of Lesotho for the Brother Leader Tread KTM Team this past weekend as they tackled the penultimate round of the 2025 South African National Cross Country Championship (SACC). The team showcased orange dominance in the Maluti Mountains, claiming victories across multiple classes and solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Brother Leader Tread KTM: Orange Takes Over Lesotho
Leading the charge was Scott Heygate, who delivered a masterclass in consistency and speed to take both the overall victory and the Open class win.
“Round 4 of the SACC Championship was truly one for the books! Managed to take the win in the time trial, and the main race was an absolute battle. The track was tough, but I kept pushing to the very end and managed to take the win on the day! A massive thank you to the team and the Lesotho Federation for an incredible event.”
Reflecting on his performance, Heygate shared,
Close behind, Matthew Wilson claimed the OR3 class win and finished fourth overall, just shy of the podium.
“Lesotho was one of the best rounds of the season so far. The terrain was rough, but I found a good flow early on and kept things consistent. Taking the OR3 win and being so close to the overall podium feels great,”.
said Wilson
Team manager and competitor Kerim Fitz-Gerald added to the orange success, taking first in his class and seventh overall.
“It was another great weekend for the team. Everyone rode exceptionally well and handled the tough Lesotho terrain like pros. We’re in a strong position heading into the finale and ready to finish the season off on a high note,”.
he said
The Brother Leader Tread KTM Team now sets its sights on the final round of the 2025 SACC Championship, looking to end the season in dominant form.
Husqvarna Racing: Momentum in the Mountains
The Husqvarna Racing Team also impressed in Lesotho’s rugged terrain, with Davin Cocker securing second overall and second in the Open class after a fierce battle at the front.
“It was a lekker battle all day! The pace was fast and the track demanding, but I had a lot of fun out there. The setup worked perfectly for the conditions,”.
said Cocker
Luke Walker backed up the strong team showing, finishing second in OR3 and fifth overall despite mid-race setbacks.
“It was a roller coaster of a race! I had a crash and even lost my front brakes on the last lap, but I kept pushing to the end,”.
Walker explained
“Davin and Luke both showed incredible control and pace in one of the roughest rounds of the season. The results reflect the hard work the entire team has put in. We’re feeling confident heading into the finale.”
Team Manager Kerim Fitz-Gerald praised his riders:
Yamaha Strikes Triple Gold in Lesotho
The Everest Wealth Ridgeway Yamaha Racing Team left Lesotho with a haul of three class wins and a third overall finish, continuing their stellar form in the 2025 season.
“Maseru proved an epic penultimate round! Our Juniors all won their races, we were third overall, and took silver in the Seniors. Well done to the entire team on an excellent job in the mountains!”
Team boss Harry Grobler shared his pride:
Among the standout performers:
- Ryan Wichman remained undefeated in the 65cc Juniors, inching closer to his first national title.
- Ruald Potgieter clinched his third win of the season in the 85cc Seniors class.
- Murray Smith, a young Yamaha veteran, took first in the 125cc class and tenth overall.
- Maddy Malan secured third overall on his Yamaha YZ 450 FX, while Marco Cocci claimed second in the Seniors.
With dominant performances across all categories, Yamaha maintains control of the Junior championships and continues to chase top honors ahead of the final round, at a venue still to be announced.
Final Round Awaits
As the 2025 South African National Cross Country Championship nears its conclusion, all eyes are on the finale. KTM leads with relentless momentum, Husqvarna remains fiercely competitive, and Yamaha continues to shine across the Junior ranks — setting up a thrilling finish to an unforgettable season in South African cross-country racing.
