On October 6, 2024, Alan Hatherly stood on top of the world, securing the UCI Cross-Country World Cup overall title with a resounding victory at Mont-Sainte-Anne, Canada. It wasn’t just a win for him or his team, Cannondale Factory Racing; it was a victory for every South African who dares to dream big. Hatherly’s journey to the top serves as an inspiration, proving that with grit, perseverance, and a relentless work ethic, anything is possible—even for a kid from South Africa.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Glory
Alan Hatherly’s story didn’t start in the grand stages of international cycling. Like many South Africans, he grew up riding the rugged trails of our country, far from the spotlight. He had to overcome not just physical challenges, but the doubts and barriers that often come with competing in a global sport while hailing from a nation with fewer resources than some of its rivals.
Yet, Hatherly never let those hurdles slow him down. He embraced the challenges, driven by the belief that no dream was too big, no goal too far. As a South African, he showed us all that coming from a smaller country is not an obstacle but an opportunity to prove how far hard work can take you.
A Testament to Perseverance
Heading into the final race of the season at Mont-Sainte-Anne, Hatherly was leading the series but knew his title wasn’t secure. One misstep, and it could all slip away. Victor Koretzky of France, the only rider capable of snatching the title from him, was in peak form. The pressure was immense, but Hatherly rose to the occasion, displaying not just his athletic prowess but his mental strength.
From the first lap, he took the lead, maintaining a relentless pace that others struggled to match. When challenges came, he didn’t falter. Even when Mathis Azzaro closed the gap, Hatherly found the strength to push harder, widening his lead again. It was a true reflection of what it means to keep fighting, even when the pressure is at its peak.
“I went to the front in the start lap and got a gap straight away,” Hatherly said after the race. “It was super tough, and I had to be tactical when Mathis caught me, but I had more in the tank and just emptied it. I thought, ‘This is it, the final 20 minutes of racing for the year, and I just need to go for it.’ And I did exactly that.”
A Message for South Africans: Never Give Up
Alan Hatherly’s victory sends a powerful message to all South Africans, particularly young athletes who may feel like their dreams are out of reach. His triumph shows that it doesn’t matter where you come from or what resources you have at your disposal. What matters is heart, determination, and an unshakable belief in yourself.
South Africa has produced world-class athletes before, but Hatherly’s win is particularly special because it comes in a sport where global competitors dominate. In winning the UCI World Cup overall title, he’s done more than just claim a trophy – he’s broken barriers and expanded the realm of possibilities for South African athletes everywhere.
Hatherly’s journey from the trails of South Africa to the top of the world in cycling is a testament to what South Africans can achieve. Whether in sports, academics, business, or any other field, his story reminds us that we can rise to any challenge, conquer any mountain, and stand tall on the global stage.
A Bright Future for South African Cycling
Alan Hatherly’s victory isn’t just a personal triumph; it signals a bright future for mountain biking in South Africa. He’s shown that with enough passion and persistence, South Africans can compete with the best in the world. His success will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of cyclists and athletes across the country.
Hatherly’s journey is far from over. As he heads toward the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he earned a bronze medal earlier this year, and continues to inspire, South Africa stands behind him, proud and motivated. His victory at Mont-Sainte-Anne is not just a win for one man; it’s a victory for every South African striving to achieve greatness against the odds.
Alan Hatherly has shown that we, too, can reach for the stars. All we need to do is believe in ourselves, work tirelessly toward our goals, and never give up – no matter how daunting the journey may seem.
