![\"ccs-62657-0-78023100-1440682163.jpg\"](\"https:\/\/wp-media.bikehub.co.za\/production\/uploads\/2023\/02\/ccs-62657-0-78023100-1440682163.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a>Team Full-Dynamix rider, Rourke Croeser flew the South African flag high, as he crossed the finish in 15th place in the Men’s Elite XCO race at the 2015 UCI MTB World Cup final in Val di Sole, Italy on Sunday 23 August. Photo: Craig Dutton\/pics2go.co.za.<\/span><\/p>\n\u201cWhat I achieved was really good and I’m happy that people understand and appreciate my hard work but, at the end of the day I’m just another South African following his dream. I am overwhelmed by the support of the South African public and would personally like to thank each and everyone who supports and believes in me,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Sunday\u2019s result has pushed Croeser up five places in the overall UCI rankings from 55th to 50th. The 24-year-old has now channeled his focus to UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, which take place in Vallnord, Andorra, from 2-6 September 2015. Most of the South African team members have arrived safely and are settling in very well.<\/p>\n
\u201cWorld Champs is a whole new ball game. My start position isn’t ideal and it takes a lot out of me to move through the field. All I can do is remain focused and follow the process needed to perform at my best,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Cycling SA MTB Commission Director, Brett Coates, said: \u201cWell done to Rourke on a fantastic achievement. Starting with the number 47 board and finding himself in the top five was a huge mountain to climb, and he handled it extremely well. Rourke has excelled in mountain biking for many years and showed promise early in his career. We look forward to the coming races.\u201d<\/p>\n