South Africa’s Martin Van Wyk captures gold in the Masters Men 55–59 Points Race at the UCI Masters World Track Championships in France.
South Africa (17 October 2025) – For Martin Van Wyk, wearing the South African flag on the world stage is more than a medal; it’s a moment of pure patriotism.
“What’s changed is the perception of what that jersey means, and for me, it’s patriotism. The support and the reaction I got, I haven’t personally posted on Facebook, but Cycling South Africa shared it, and when I saw the amount of shares and the heading ‘South Africa has a new world champion,’ it hit home. When I went to the podium, the first thing I did was grab my flag, and my family held it while I celebrated. That’s what it means having a world jersey. I’m South African.”
That moment came after years of persistence and passion, followed by a golden finish at the UCI Masters World Track Championships in Roubaix, France, where Martin claimed gold in the Masters Men 55–59 Points Race.
His journey began four decades ago.
“I started when I was 14, back in 1984. My dad used to be a rider, and that’s how I learned how to ride. I used to work in his business and earn some money, and he said if I save up for half the money for a bicycle, he’ll pay the other half and the rest is history.”
After a break in his twenties, life came full circle when he returned to racing at 33 (this time, as a master). Balancing his passion with running his own business, Martin’s training regimen is as disciplined as it is demanding.
“There are two days in the week which are gym sessions, but mainly Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturday and Sunday are the big days. Some weeks it’s 14 hours, others 20 hours. Work is good, and I don’t think anybody could do it if you don’t have good staff. But I think my staff likes it because it keeps me sane.”
At Roubaix, everything came together. After a narrow miss in the scratch and pursuit races, Martin dominated the tactical and gruelling points race. Staying ahead from start to finish to claim gold by a single point.
“It’s a tough race. It’s not just physically, it’s also tough mentally. Winning by one point to losing by one point is the difference between a world champion and second place.”
And while others arrived with ice jackets, mechanics and full teams, Martin simply had heart and his family by his side.
“It’s so great that you can come from a country like South Africa and without any excuses, still come out on top.”
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