Nine New Zealand riders are set to compete in the UCI BMX Racing World Cup double round this weekend at the iconic Papendal track in the Netherlands.

With a record 334 riders entered, the Papendal event marks the 12th time the renowned Dutch venue—just outside Arnhem—has hosted a World Cup round. Its long first straight, tight corners, and big jumps offer a stark contrast to the more compact Sarrians track in France, where the opening two rounds were held last weekend.

Leading the charge again are Cambridge-based riders Lily Greenough and Olympian Leila Walker. Greenough, just 17, showed blistering form out of the gate in France, and the more technical layout at Papendal could play to her strengths. Walker, returning from injury, will be hoping her sharp race craft can shine on the longer track as she rebuilds her race fitness.

Elite men Michael Bias and Rico Bearman both made it to the quarterfinals in Sarrians and are eyeing progression this weekend. Rotorua’s Megan Williams also returns in the elite women’s field.

In the under-23 ranks, Finn Cogan impressed in France and will look to continue his momentum after a recent French Cup podium. He’s joined by Jack Greenough, who is bouncing back from injury, as well as Cooper Richardson (North Harbour), who made the junior final on day two in Sarrians, and Southland’s Nick Cowie.

📺 Catch all the action live on Sky Sport 2
🔗 More details at: uci.org
📸 Photo: Lily Greenough in action at the UCI BMX Racing World Cup in Sarrians, France (Credit: Craig Dutton – UCI)

Article added: Saturday 21 June 2025