In Greyton, where the outdoors forms the backdrop to everyday life, it is often the quiet, consistent efforts of individuals that make the deepest impact. Nicky Burnell is one such person.
T hrough her work with the Greyton Junior Mountain Bike Club , she has created far more than a cycling programme - she has built a space where young people develop confidence, resil- ience and a true sense of belonging. The Junior MTB programme has been part of the Greyton community for over 12 years, evolving under various leaders before Nicky stepped in three years ago. Her involvement began simply - noticing a group of mostly boys riding and feeling inspired to help bring more girls into the fold. When the opportunity arose to take over leadership, she embraced it whole- heartedly, and the club has since become a central part of her life. Nicky’s passion is deeply personal. She only discovered mountain biking later in life, after her children had grown up. What began as a new hobby quickly became something
and supported. Perhaps most powerful is the way the programme nurtures lead - ership: older riders often return to assist with younger groups, creating a cycle of mentorship that strengthens the entire community. The club is supported by a dedicated team, including Oom Peet Pietersen, a vital link to the community, as well as Takunda Jackson and Makonnon Blom, who contribute as ride leaders and mechanics. Additional support has come from organisations such as the Overberg Cycling Association, helping to fund training and development opportunities. Some funding comes from local events like the Canola Roller, alongside Nicky’s tireless efforts to source equipment and opportunities. Storage space, workshop facilities and volunteer capacity continue to limit growth, even as interest rises. Looking ahead, Nicky hopes to expand the programme, host local cycling events and encourage more community involve - ment. A key focus remains getting more girls to stay involved through adolescence, with initiatives like the proposed “Pads for Princesses” programme aimed at providing the support they need to con - tinue. At its heart, Nicky’s work is about unlocking potential.
was capable of far more than she had imagined. Today, the club supports around 60 children - approximately 20 girls and 40 boys - all aged eight and up. Many rely on shared club bikes, which means resources ulti- mately limit how many can participate. Despite this, demand continues to grow, a clear reflection of the programme’s impact and reputation in the village. Sessions take place twice a week and follow a simple but effective structure. Riders begin with short skills sessions in a safe space before heading out onto the trails. Here, children learn not only technical riding skills but also discipline, patience and respect. These lessons are reinforced through practical experience - navigating terrain, working as a group and supporting one another. Alongside this, Nicky makes space for important conversations, from kindness and bullying to appreciation and accountability.
transformative. Through riding, she found con- fidence, courage and a supportive community - experiences she is now determined to pass on to the next generation. As she often reflects, the sport showed her she
The results are remarkable. Some children discover competitive po - tential and go on to participate in events beyond Greyton, while others simply find joy, confidence and a place where they feel seen
Through patience, passion and persistence, she is not only growing young riders - she is shaping confident, capable individuals. And in doing so, she is quietly helping to shape the future of Greyton.
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