South African mountain biking sensation Alan Hatherly is ready to push his limits in an exciting new direction. After a phenomenal year that saw him claim the 2024 MTB Cross Country World Championship title and an Olympic bronze medal, Hatherly is now set to transition into road racing. At 28 years old, he’s stepping out of his comfort zone to join Team Jayco AlUla on a two-year contract, embracing a dual-discipline approach that few cyclists have dared to attempt.
Alan’s decision to expand into road racing is driven by his desire for growth and development. Reflecting on this new journey, he shared, “Now is the perfect moment for me to get out of my comfort zone and develop even further.” It’s a leap into the unknown for a rider who has dominated the mountain biking scene, but it’s also a testament to his willingness to challenge himself.
Paving a Unique Path: MTB and Road Racing Combined
While the transition to road racing may be new, Hatherly isn’t entirely unfamiliar with the discipline. Earlier this year, he secured a second-place finish in the South African Time Trial Championships and won the Tour du Cap. This experience gives him a solid foundation as he prepares to compete on the WorldTour circuit with Team Jayco AlUla.
Brent Copeland, team manager, is confident in Hatherly’s ability to excel: “He has clearly had a breakthrough season in MTB, and we believe he has a lot more to give.” The team’s support network, combined with Hatherly’s exceptional talent, sets the stage for him to thrive in this new chapter of his career.
As he continues his off-road commitments under Giant Factory Racing while also taking on road racing challenges, Hatherly’s journey is a powerful reminder that stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to new heights. It’s a bold move that speaks to his relentless drive to redefine his limits and expand his legacy in the cycling world.
