What started as two local boys tearing up dirt mounds in the parks in Kenridge with their mountain bikes during lockdown, has turned into the dream of a lifetime.

The journey of 17-year-olds Xavier “Xavi” Gomes, a matric learner at Fairmont High School, and Zak Jones, an ex-learner at Fairmont, came full circle when they were officially selected to represent South Africa at the upcoming UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Italy.

The championships will take place from 26 to 30 August.

Xavi and Zak, both members of the Western Cape Downhill Club, have been friends since their primary school days at Kenridge Primary School.

Making waves

“Years ago, young Xavi looked up to Zak, who was already making waves as a South African Downhill champion. Inspired by watching Zak race, Xavi knew right away that he wanted to conquer the tracks too.

“When Covid-19 hit and daily routines shifted, the pair bonded during their designated morning outdoor slots — honing their skills, building speed and throwing tricks at the local ‘gummies’ (gumtrails) in Kenridge,” says Xavi’s proud mother, Nadine Gomes.

That shared passion and relentless practice on home soil laid the foundation for something far bigger. Their hard work has paid off in the ultimate way when they will line up in the World Championships in the Junior Men’s Downhill category at the prestigious Val di Sole circuit — also known as the “Black Snake” track — in Trentino, Italy.

Taking on the legendary, brutal terrain of the Italian Alps, they will finish off their junior season wearing the green and gold jerseys for Team South Africa.

The two boys are proof of what happens when childhood dreams meet unwavering determination — from local dirt jumps to the biggest stage in world mountain biking.

Their next local race is at the 2026 Commencal/SRAM WC DH Series, which will be held at Spice Routes in Paarl on Sunday 27 September.

Self-funded

While earning national colors is the highest honor in South African sport, this tour is entirely self-funded. The riders and their families must cover all expenses out of pocket to make this dream possible.

Their families are hoping to raise R120 000 with a BackaBuddy campaign for their flights and bike freight, accommodation and meals for a week, as well as event fees, official team kit, bike maintenance, spare parts and equipment.

Visit their BackaBuddy page to assist.

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