The 2026 motocross (MX) season has kicked off with intensive training and strategic planning, bolstered by South African MX guru Dean Hoffman sharing his expertise with young riders at Swakopmund and in Windhoek.
Hoffman, a renowned expert, dedicated time to shaping local talent – not only for the future but specifically for the upcoming Motocross of African Nations (MXoAN) championships scheduled for August.
His coaching clinics are designed to equip riders ranging from nine-year-olds in the 65cc class to more advanced intermediate competitors.
The sessions focus on refining techniques and skills to ensure riders become both faster and more efficient.
Ingo Waldschmidt of MX Namibia says track time is of the essence, as a single second often determines a win or a loss.
“Making up time and maintaining that lead requires specific skills,” he says.
Hoffman’s sessions are limited to 12 riders per group to ensure quality one-on-one time.
The syllabus covers essential topics including starts, cornering techniques, jumping, and landing skills.
“From braking to cornering, there are so many tricks we can learn. Gaining even two seconds per lap means a lot by the end of the race,” Waldschmidt says.
He says even the choice of landing on the front or rear wheel could result in gaining or losing valuable seconds. While less experienced riders often prefer landing on the rear wheel, senior and advanced riders typically aim for the front wheel.
Waldschmidt says landing on the front wheel is the preferred technique, because it results in less friction and less impact on the bike.
“Landing on the front wheel is not as hard on the rider or the machine, and the rider has more control over the bike,” he says, adding that braking too late or too early also significantly impacts a rider’s performance.
Meanwhile, preparations for the MXoAN, slated for 29 August, are well underway.
Significant upgrades are being made to the facilities, including a larger starting gate, improved pits, and enhanced safety measures as required by the International Motorcycle Federation.
A new public address system is also being installed.
Waldschmidt says the current facilities at the Gallina MX Park are 20 years old and require these essential upgrades.
Between 180 and 200 riders from across Africa are expected to compete in the continental showpiece.
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