Lesotho to host first-ever SACC race

The Basotho Youth Racing Academy (BYRA) is set to make history by hosting Round 4 of the South African Cross Country (SACC) National Championship in Lesotho for the first time, on Saturday.

Founded in 2018, BYRA’s mission is to nurture world-class riders who can compete across Southern Africa and on international platforms. 

Spokesperson Ntiea Letsapo said the academy is already putting Lesotho on the motorsport map by giving young Basotho opportunities to race beyond borders, from Lesotho’s scenic valleys to South Africa’s rugged tracks, and ultimately, the legendary Roof of Africa.

“Our goal is bigger than just racing; we’re building champions in sport and in life. The academy offers a fun, disciplined and adrenaline-filled environment where children learn teamwork, responsibility and confidence, while staying out of trouble,” Letsapo said. 

The SACC Championship is a multi-round, point-based series held annually across South Africa’s provinces. For the first time, one round will be hosted in Lesotho, supported by BYRA. The event features junior and senior categories, with track lengths ranging from 16–25 km for juniors to 40–55 km loops for senior and pro riders. Races typically last between two and three hours, testing competitors on natural terrain including open fields, mountain passes, rivers and rocky trails.

Each race contributes to a season-long championship, with riders accumulating points toward national titles.

Letsapo described the event as a milestone for youth development, motorsport tourism and regional collaboration. 

“This race gives Basotho children a platform to shine on home soil and cements Lesotho’s position as a serious player in the cross-country racing scene,” he noted.