Not many of us can claim to have raced in anger with the pros, but Stuart Jones did just that this weekend when he bagged a fantastic 17th spot at the National Cyclocross Championships, just 14 places behind 3rd placed man Roger Hammond. Stuart, currently running 2nd in the London Cyclocross League, said:

“It was an awesome course. Quite fast, and very unforgiving. There was hardly anywhere to rest plus there were a few tough run ups (plus a set of concrete stairs) so it really pushed you to the edge. I got caught by the leaders on the finishing straight which was great timing as I am not sure I had another lap in me! Jody Crawforth won which was a great result for him – he seemed pretty confident at dinner on Saturday night.”

Stuart’s result is even more exceptional when you consider this is his first season riding a cross bike. Next year he’ll have to have a go on his fixed mtb and really show the pros what he can do.

Photos courtesy of Larry Hickmott (larryhickmott@britishcycling.org.uk)