I was looking forward to my first MTB National Champs as Juvenile (U14) and was lucky that it took place in Cannock chase, I had ridden their multiple times and enjoyed the trails there.

The course was really quick, with tough climbs, drops and rock gardens. We weren’t very lucky with the weather, on the Saturday I managed to get a practise lap in before the very heavy rain, and went out later that day for a slippy lap and rode everything I wanted to.

The atmosphere at the race was really good, with stands to get food and drinks, young athlete help, and many stands advertising their products which was nice. The finish straight was the heart of the event where you could watch everyone coming through and watch the starts.

On race day I was ready for the race and had a strong warm up, I fuelled well and was prepared for my race. I had a good start and gained on the other girls on the climbs I was doing well until my front wheel gave way and I ended up on the ground and 4 girls came past me, it wasn’t the end of the world as I was still coming back from injury (broken wrist) and I still have plenty more years to race National Camps.

A massive thank you goes to Kids Racing (HUPcc), Summit Mountain Bike Club, Welwyn Wheelers and my Mum and Dad for all of their help and support getting me ready for the race.