Stuart Jones flew the flag for London Phoenix this weekend at the final round of the Cyclo Cross National Trophy. It was a super tough event, with British Cycling describing it as “the toughest yet”.

Stuart, who finished just out of the top 20 said:

“The Derby course was all on grass and was really muddy. You slipped up the hills, down them and round the corners. Traction was in short supply and it was a choice of either pedalling quite slowly up the hills or running.”

“Being lapped by [National Champion – ed] Jody Crawforth and a few other ‘top hitters’ gave me a good chance to see them in action, and they are on another planet! Jody just powered his way up the hills and through the mud as if it was smooth tarmac! He went on to win the race and take the National Trophy so its been a great season for him.”

Probably the most consistent rider in the hotly contested London Cyclo Cross League, Stuart will be battling for a win at this Sunday’s Herne Hill event.

Thanks to Larry Hickmott of BC for the photos, and full coverage of the final available here