Zoe Backstedt has successfully defended her British elite women’s time trial crown, leading an entirely Welsh podium at the 2026 championships held in Lampeter. The 21-year-old cyclist completed the 15.9-mile Ceredigion route in 32 minutes and 45 seconds, shortly after her recent success at the Tour de Suisse Femmes. Backstedt expressed satisfaction with the challenging yet enjoyable course, noting her pride in retaining the National Champion jersey.
The runner-up position went to world track cycling champion Anna Morris, who finished 22 seconds behind the winner. Elynor Backstedt, Zoe’s 24-year-old sister, completed the top three with a time 1 minute and 5 seconds off the pace. Earlier in the day, Ben Wiggins claimed the Under-23 men’s title, followed by Henry Hobbs and local rider Finlay Tarling.
The competition shifts to Aberystwyth for the circuit championships this Friday, leading into Sunday’s road race titles. Reigning elite women’s champion Millie Couzens is set to face strong competition from riders like Pfeiffer Georgi and Anna Henderson. Meanwhile, Sam Watson will aim to defend his men’s road title. The weekend’s final road races will feature a 23.4km loop starting from the seafront, with the peloton tackling multiple laps before a final 12.4km finishing circuit.
