By Nick Butler

Participants on the level one coaching course, supported by the Namibian National Olympic Committee ©NNOC/NCFAn international level one cycling coaching course has been held in Windhoek following a collaboration between the Namibian National Olympic Committee (NNOC) and the Namibian Cycling Federation.


The course - which included participants from all parts of the Southern African nation - focused on educating a new generation of coaches, giving them an opportunity to obtain an international qualification.

They are now hoping to share their knowledge and expertise with cyclists across the country, with the eventual aim to produce "world class" coaches to boost the nation's performance in the sport. 

The International Cycling Union (UCI) approved course was funded by the NNOC's Olympic Solidarity grant, which allowed UCI-accredited instructor Richard Shepherd, a renowned coach from cycling hotbed Great Britain, to attend. 

It is hoped a level two course will take place later this year.

Mountain biker Marc Bassingthwaighte was one of two Namibian cyclists to compete at London 2012 ©AFP/Getty ImagesMountain biker Marc Bassingthwaighte was one of two Namibian cyclists to compete at London 2012 ©AFP/Getty Images



Sheppard, who previously worked with Namibian cyclists in 2014, reported great potential and is hopeful the nation will now continue to develop its cycling infrastructure.

"During the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, I was asked to accompany the Namibian team as coach, which was an honour for me at these prestigious Games," he said.

"I hope my involvement will see further visits throughout the coming years to support projects and ensure Namibia creates a strong, healthy and sustainable structure that is an example of excellence in cycle sport."

Namibia has won four medals in the Olympic Games, all won by sprinter and current International Olympic Committee member, Frankie Fredericks, but are yet to win a medal in cycling. 

The nation's nine-strong team at London 2012 included two cyclists, with cross-country mountain biker Marc Bassingthwaighte, who finished 30th, joined by Dan Craven, who failed to finish the men's road race. 

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