The organisers of the popular Cycle Lab Schools MTB Series are working diligently to address an unexpected challenge in the 2024 calendar. St. Stithians Boys College, originally scheduled to host the series finale on August 31st, has unfortunately withdrawn their invitation due to internal miscommunication and scheduling conflicts. This is despite the school receiving and accepting a formal written invitation and having confirmed to host the final event in the 2024 racing calendar. 

"We are deeply disappointed by this late development," said Sven Pederson, Race Director for the Cycle Lab Schools MTB Series. "Securing venues and dates need to happen well in advance and is crucial for a smooth-running series.

We were extremely surprised by this sudden turn of events, as we received written confirmation from St. Stithians in October 2023. We invested significant time and resources in planning a successful event at their institution, including a course mapping session, held with all relevant parties, just the week before the withdrawal." 

Despite these efforts and assurances, St. Stithians Boys College cited a conflicting rugby event and concerns about field damage because of the event (though they have hosted similar MTB events previously) as reasons for rescinding their invitation. 

This late change has placed immense pressure on the Cycle Lab team to secure an alternative venue for the August 31st event, significantly impacting the already finalized racing calendar. 

The series, a collaboration between Cycle Lab and Schools Cycling South Africa prioritises safety, clear communication, and fostering a love of mountain biking among students. The series organisers seek to align themselves with partners, venues and schools that are equally committed to the sport of mountain biking, who demonstrate a clear understanding of the sport and what hosting world-class events like these entails. 

"Our vision is to create a reliable calendar that allows parents, teachers, and riders to plan their season with confidence," said Tobias Lubbe, representing SCSA. "We commend schools, and cycling venues that partner with us to deliver world-class events, and we rely on open communication to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved."