Leoné races on instinct and wins big

GEORGE SPORT - Leoné Theron, a Grade Seven learner of George-Suid Primary School, made a clean sweep at the Youth Cycling Festival held in Oudtshoorn from 15 to 17 July.

Clinching first place in all four bike events in the U15 age group, including the road race, cross-country, criterium and team time trial events, Leoné was named the victrix ludorum at the festival's conclusion.

The valuable points she raked in for the Eden Cycling team also contributed towards this host team taking top honours in the team competition.

Hosted by Eden Cycling against the backdrop of the spectacular Swartberg Mountains, this inter-districts cycling event formed part of the 2025 Oudtshoorn Sports Festival held from mid-June to mid-July, featuring a range of sporting codes such as rugby, darts, bowls, soccer, cycling as well as tumbling and gymnastics.

Leoné holds dual SA titles in the U15 track and road cycling disciplines. What makes this young racing snake's performance so much more impressive is that she trains and races without the holy trinity of competitive cycling tools: a bike computer, a coach and a Strava account.

Cyclists are notoriously meticulous when it comes to tracking their data. The average cyclist's love of speed and distance is rivalled only by their love of measuring it. Metrics such as distance, speed, elevation gain, heart rate, cadence, power output, calories burnt, time in motion vs stopped and route mapping are studiously analysed to track performance, adjust training and prevent overtraining. However, the young powerhouse's mother, Susan, said her daughter is different - at least for now. "She just loves riding. As long as there's something in front of her to chase."

While Leoné has her sights set on someday wearing the iconic Rainbow Jersey, worn by the reigning world champion in cycling, she's still young, thus her mother encourages her to play as many other sports as possible and just have fun.

Jean Neethling, Leah Hopper, Loené Theron, Nikitha Kemmies and Stephan Aucamp