Castrol engage with grit, determination

Enduro
Tielman van Lill
  • 22 Hours Ago

The second leg of the 2026 national enduro championship tomorrow at Itumba, will be sponsored by Castrol Oil.

The Namibian Enduro Club is gearing up for an exciting event, set to take place at the ever-popular Itumba track on Windhoek’s southern outskirts.

Riders and supporters alike are looking forward to returning to one of the country’s most loved venues – known for its balance of beauty, technical sections, and demanding terrain.

Itumba has built a reputation over the years as a track that challenges even the most experienced riders while still delivering an enjoyable racing experience. From rocky climbs to flowing bush sections, competitors can expect a course that will test both skill and endurance.

While the final entry list has not yet been confirmed, organisers are optimistic about a strong turnout. Following the record-breaking 65 entries at the season opener in Yellowstone, expectations are high that this weekend’s event will match – or even exceed – that impressive number.

The Pro Class is once again set to deliver top-tier racing action. In Class 2, fans can look forward to seeing Quinton Van Rooyen (KTM), Corne Visser (KTM), Nickle Visser (Husqvarna), and Henner Rusch (Sherco), who makes his much-anticipated return this season. Adding fresh competition to the mix are newcomers Dean Schlechter (Sherco) and Killian Ham (KTM), both eager to make their mark among the elite.

In the Senior Pro Class (Class 5), the competition remains fierce with Jorn Greiter (KTM), Rian Kritzinger (Sherco), Ruan de Lange (Sherco) – back in the saddle after a major crash last year – and Hanre Myburgh (Sherco) all expected to line up.

The Intermediate Class (Class 7) also promises strong performances, featuring riders such as Duard Wiese (Sherco), Andre Barnard (Sherco), who returns after injury, Jean Venter (Sherco), Antonio Monteiro (Sherco), and Tristian Prinsloo (Sherco).

Class 10 will see a competitive field including Pieter van Helsdingen (Sherco), Zwayne Blaauw (Sherco), Fanie Steenkamp (Beta), Wouter Hough (Sherco), and Richard Jonck (KTM), all ready to tackle the demanding Itumba terrain.

The Women’s Class continues to grow in strength and visibility, with Shannon Graber, Melieke Steyl and Maike Bochert representing the ever-rising standard of female riders in Namibian enduro racing.

The Namibian Enduro Club extends its sincere gratitude to event sponsor Castrol. The continued support from sponsors plays a vital role in the growth and sustainability of the sport, enabling riders to compete and the club to host high-quality events.

With adrenaline, determination, and a passion for off-road racing, this weekend’s event at Itumba promises to deliver yet another memorable chapter in the Namibian Enduro Championship. Spectators are encouraged to come out and support the riders as they take on one of the country’s most exciting tracks.

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