The event is one of the highlights on the national motocross calendar and will see some of South Africa’s leading riders descend on the Free State for a day of high-speed racing and fierce provincial competition.

For the Bloemfontein Off-Road Club (BORC), the North vs South is the second-biggest event on its annual calendar behind the MX Nationals. However, there is something different about this particular race.

Kabelo Ledwaba - Morgan Piek

While the country’s top riders regularly compete for individual honours at national championship events, Saturday’s focus will be firmly on provincial pride.

Riders will line up as part of provincial teams, with the overall goal of helping their respective regions claim bragging rights.

Johan Vogelesang of BORC, who will represent the Free State, told OFM Sport that the local riders are looking forward to the challenge.

Tempe has long regarded as one of the best and challenging tracks in South Africa - Morgan Piek

“Since its introduction, the North vs South Motocross Interprovincial has established itself as one of the biggest and most anticipated events on the African motocross calendar,” said Vogelesang.

He says the Bloemfontein venue remains one of the major attractions, with its soil and track preparation regularly earning praise from competitors.

“Hosted annually at the renowned Bloemfontein Off-Road Club, the event takes place at one of South Africa’s most popular motocross venues,” he said.

Luke Grundy - Morgan Piek

“The North vs South brings a unique element to motocross as provinces go head-to-head, each selecting their strongest team to compete for provincial honours.”

The event also provides an important platform for riders at different stages of their careers.

Experienced competitors will battle for the lead, while some of the country’s emerging riders will get the chance to measure themselves against top-level opposition.

Vogelesang believes that mix is part of what makes the event so special.

Jordan van Wyk - Morgan Piek

“With home-track advantage and provincial pride on the line, Team Free State will be looking to deliver a strong performance as they battle for victory at this year’s Interprovincial Challenge,” he said.

He has also urged Free State supporters to turn out in numbers and get behind the local riders.

“We call on the entire Free State community to come out in full force, get behind our riders and show your support as Team Free State takes on the rest of South Africa.”

With the smell of fuel, the thunder of engines and riders fighting for every position, spectators can expect an action-packed day at Tempe. The first gates are scheduled to drop at 10:00 on Saturday morning, with provincial bragging rights up for grabs.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport