A FIELD of about 600 riders enjoyed “perfect” conditions as the HSBC UK National Cyclo-Cross Championships rolled into Bradford after a four-year absence today.

Peel Park was the venue for the competition, as it had been in 2009 and 2013, with many of the country’s top riders on show in ten races across various age groups.

Organisers delivered their pre-event promise of a new-look course filled with “thrills and spills and plenty of good Yorkshire mud”.

Course director Fred Rothwell said there were a number of Yorkshire-based competitors aiming for success in the races, which ranged from under 14s to 50-plus veterans categories.

“It’s gone absolutely brilliantly, and when you get locals finishing on the podium, that makes it even more worthwhile,” he said.

“There’s been a lot of Yorkshire interest in the events. This year has been really kind to us, and these are the best conditions we have ever had here. It’s a little bit tacky but firm, and that’s when you see really competitive racing. We’ve had around 600 riders this year, which is brilliant.”

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