Free State Cycling has refurbished both the shorter and longer tracks ahead of the South African championships that will be taking place at Happy Valley.

The track has long been regarded as one of the most technical and challenging tracks in the country and it thoroughly tests the riders.

President of Free State Cycling, Jarques Koekemoer, told OFM Sport that the riders will be challenged by the new main course, while the juniors will have their own brand-new track to compete on.

“On the main course it was all about grooming in order to make it faster and smoother. Opposite the road at Happy Valley, we have built a completely separate track for the juniors.

“When I say littles ones, we refer to them and nippers and sprogs. They are all the way from 8 to 13 years old and they will be riding a brand new track on the opposite side of Happy Valley.

“They have their one track that is 1,3km long with a 41m elevation per lap and they are very excited about it.

“On the main course there is one big surprise that awaits those that have ridden the course before.

“If you come down the hairpin on the back on the hill there is a new little switchback. When those legs are burning, they are going to burn a little bit more.”

Saturday is the main race day and the action will get underway at 9am with the Sprog boys and girls.

The part of Brill Street where Happy Valley is situated will be closed on Saturday from 6am to 5pm.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport