Coetzee and Looser win second round of WPP Race

Drikus Coetzee and Vera Looser claimed top honours in the men’s and women’s sections at Nedbank Namibia’s second round of the Windhoek Pedal Power (WPP) Race Series.

Held at Teufelsschlucht last weekend, the event attracted 285 cyclists who participated in various race categories, ranging from 20km to 120km.

Sunday’s race delivered decisive elite victories, with Coetzee securing the Elite Men’s title after crossing the finish line in 2:50:10. He was followed by Ingram Cuff in second place and Theuns van der Westhuizen in third.

Coetzee described the race as a collective effort. “The [race] was fantastic. As part of the Hollard team, we had a perfect plan and executed it very well,” he said.

‘Exciting race’

Looser claimed top honours in the Elite Women’s race with a winning time of 2:34:19, ahead of Anri Greeff in second place and Maja Jeanne Brinkmann in third.

Reflecting on the race, Looser described it as “super flat”, noting that the wind played a role in shaping the outcome.

“The race was interesting as we raced [alongside] the Master Men, which is quite exciting. It makes the race more attractive to us, but also much harder,” she said.

WPP Race coordinator Stefanus Feris highlighted the significance of the weekend and the continued support behind the series.

“The series wouldn’t be possible without Nedbank, so we’re grateful for that. [We are also grateful for] the big turnout and the spectators who come to assist and cheer on the riders.

“These are the elements we need in cycling to help it grow and become a successful sport. This [event] is always fast and very well raced, which makes the turnout bigger than at other races,” he noted.

The success of WPP’s second round further underscored Nedbank Namibia’s longstanding contribution to the development of cycling in the country.

‘Proud series supporter’

Reflecting on the achievement, the bank’s chief commercial officer, JG van Graan, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting initiatives that encourage active and healthy lifestyles.

“The race series continues to demonstrate our commitment to meaningful community investment. It provides riders with consistent, well-organised racing opportunities.

“That consistency, coupled with our focus on community wellbeing, is why Nedbank remains a proud supporter of the series,” he said.

The Nedbank WPP Race Series will continue as follows:

• WPP3: 25 January at Dobra Loops
• WPP4: 22 March at Matchless
• WPP5: 26 April at Carin Park
• WPP6: 16 to 17 May at Kupferberg and Airport Highway (Route 2)