AT just 12-years-old, Durban North resident Trenton Kretzmann has secured his fourth South African Motocross (MX) Championship in five years.

The Grade Six learner at Virginia Preparatory School is the youngest champion in the 85cc class in the history of the sport in South Africa.

Incredibly, he now holds SA titles in the 50cc (twice), 65cc and 85cc classes.

Last year, he was crowned the African Champion in the 65cc class, effectively making him the fastest kid in the country and the continent.

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To cap off an amazing year in the sport, Trenton won seven of 14 races across the country and podiumed in all of them except one.

“I feel chuffed and a little overwhelmed to be honest,” he explained. “This was my first year in the 85cc class and it was supposed to be a learning year but because of my results in the first round, my dad, who also rides, suggested I go for the championship and I’ve not looked back since. I would have been happy to secure a top five place but I’ve surpassed my initial expectations. My goal next year is to move up a class to 125cc just to try it, but I will also race the 85cc class again as I would like to defend my championship,” he said.

The sport of motocross (MX), which takes place on off-road courses, is considered one of the most physically demanding motorcycle sports and Trenton believes his training alongside competing in other sports has helped him.

“I’m involved in other sports in my school but I think rugby has helped me immensely, especially in terms of physical strength. I also train every two weeks at a track at Hazelmere Dam,” he said.

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Trenton’s brother Coby (9), who also competes in the sport, placed fifth overall in the country this year in the 65cc class.

“It is great to be able to share the sport with my family and Coby. He uses some of the parts from my previous bikes when he competes. I feel proud of how far he has come and I would love for us to emulate the success of the Lawrence brothers (Jet and Hunter) who are the fastest brothers in the world in motorcross. That for me would be the ultimate dream, competing internationally alongside my brother,” he said.

He also shared how his parents have supported him on the journey.

“I don’t think I’d be where I am today without my parents. They have been so supportive. Because my dad also rides, his experience and knowledge has been invaluable. I remember when I started, something as small as feet position on the bike made a huge difference. I had my feet splayed outward, sort of like a penguin and my dad suggested putting them in a diamond shape and that immediately made an impact,” he said.

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