South Africa's rising cycling star ready for international competition

Up-and-coming cycling star Spencer van Zyl continues his ascent in the world of cycling, with the next step being a major European Junior Cycle Tour.  

The event takes place at the end of July and will see the 13-year-old test his cycling skills and endurance against some of the best young cyclists from around the globe. 

The Parklands rider brings three years of cycling experience to the tour, having already made a name for himself on South African roads.

Last year, he was crowned a national champion when he won the SA Road Championships in the under-13 category.  

He also claimed titles in the SA Time Trial and the SA Criterium Championships, underlining his versatility across disciplines. 

Spencer boasts an impressive record in the iconic Cape Town Cycle Tour, having completed it three times.  

Remarkably, he tackled the challenging 109 km route twice, improving his time each year. This year he finished the full route in an outstanding 3 hr 10 min, topping the under-15 boys category.  

Previously, at age 10, he cycled a 43 km section and in subsequent years took on the full 109 km course, demonstrating rapid progress.

He draws inspiration from cycling greats like Tadej Pogačar, a multiple Tour de France winner.  

With his eyes set on prestigious races like the Tour de France in his career, Spencer is clearly on track to make massive inroads with his bike.  

His mother, Lee-Ann van Niekerk, says Spencer has always shown tremendous determination since he took to the sport.  

“Spencer practices five times a week: skill lessons, track training, and long road outrides. For body-core strengthening, he also does gym work when time allows,” she said.

The trip to the Netherlands comes at the back of an invitation from Stichting Ondersteuning Wielersport (S.O.W.), the Cycling Support Foundation, where Spencer will take part in the five-day Junior Cycle Tour, which covers various road racing disciplines in the Netherlands from July 28 to August 1. 

If his recent form is anything to go by, Spencer is poised to perform brilliantly in the Netherlands.

Success there would not only mark a major personal accomplishment but also raise the profile of South African junior cycling on the global stage.  

His performances in recent months suggest he’ll show up and show off while flying the SA flag high. 

Anyone wishing to help cover the costs of the trip can contact his mom, Lee-Ann van Niekerk, at leeannvniekerk@outlook.com