Series leaders Thomas and Elena prevail through a testing challenge

British Cycling and UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) officials gave another impressed thumbs-up to Paignton’s Torbay Velopark and organisers Mid-Devon CC after the weekend’s National Trophy Cyclo-Cross Fourth Round meeting.
Just as it did 12 months ago, wet weather in the build-up created muddy conditions that tested riders, support staff and the organisation to the limit. But visiting officials were more than happy with the two days of action, which saw nearly 400 riders of all ages from all over the UK compete over the gruelling course.
“We’re really pleased with how it went, and grateful to everyone who worked so hard,” said co organiser Rob Woodger. “There’s a good chance that we’ll do it again next year.”
Series leaders Thomas Mein (Hope Factory Racing) and Elena Day (Spectra Cannon Dale) won the Elite Men’s and Women’s races. Many MDCC members were part of the volunteer support team, but World Masters champion Robin Delve was fourth in the Veterans Over-60 race, James Bovey and Martin Smith were 11th and 24th in the Over-50s, Lauren Fox finished fourth in the Girls Under-14 group and sister Eva was ninth in the Under-16s.