Three Stellenbosch University students – Hans-Werner Heuer, CP van Wyk and Max Sullivan – will be representing University Sport South Africa (USSA) at the international World University Cycling Championship (WUCC) 2016 to be held from 16-20 March 2016 in the Philippines. This achievement is even more significant considering the fact that the three-man team consists of Matie students only, selected at a recent USSA national cycling event hosted by Stellenbosch University and attended by seven South African universities.
Students from at least 17 countries, including leading participants from Europe and the USA, will attend the championship which, for the first time, will be contested outside Europe. The event features four main races – a 122 km road race, a 80 km criterium, a 35 km cross country Olympic and a 1,2 km cross country eliminator.
According to USSA rules, specific criteria apply to ensure that only bona fide students participate. Amongst others, students’ curricula are evaluated and carry a certain weight when it comes to grading within their sport. In this case Heuer is a final year engineering student, Van Wyk studies BCom and Sullivan BCom Hons in Public Administration (BPA).
The team and their managers, Errard Sullivan and André van Wyk, are full of praise for the support that they get from Stellenbosch University, especially from Ms Ilhaam Groenewald – Chief Director of Maties Sport and USSA First Vice President – and her members of staff at Maties Sport who assist them with arrangements.
For the team members and their local sponsors – Stellenbosch Cycling, BMT Bike Shop and Alfa Bodyworks respectively – this is a dream come true. As serious participants in the sport of cycling it has always been their ambition to be sporting national colours and, to represent South Africa and its student community at this prestigious international event, makes them simultaneously humble and proud. “This is a journey that will open new doors for us and for many other South African cyclists to come,” says Sullivan on behalf of the team. “This event will be the highlight of our cycling careers, and we cannot wait!” he adds.
CP van Wyk, Max Sullivan and Hans-Werner Heuer, competing in the international World University Cycling Championship from 16-20 March 2016 in the Philippines.
Apart from financial support that the team receives from Stellenbosch University, the team members are responsible to cover the bulk of the tour expenses themselves. Those wanting to contribute financially may contact Heuer on 071 401 6871.
Nice, good luck!