Team GB's Cyclo-Cross Quest: Your Guide to the 2024 World Championships.

This weekend, all eyes are on the Cyclo-Cross World Championships in the Czech Republic, where British hopes are riding high. Cameron Mason, Anna Kay, and Zoe Backstedt are leading the charge for Team GB in this thrilling competition.

Cyclo-cross, a dynamic cycling discipline, unfolds with hour-long races navigating a course filled with ramps, muddy bends, and flat road surfaces.

Regrettably, Britain's 2022 world champion, Tom Pidcock, won't be participating in the Tabor event. Powerhouses Belgium and the Netherlands boast remarkable success, with favorites including Fem van Empel and Mathieu van der Poel.

Here's a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about this thrilling event:

How does cyclo-cross work?

Cyclo-cross happens mostly in winter, and in January, Cameron Mason and Anna Kay clinched victories at the British Championships held in Falkirk.

Athletes use bikes similar to road bikes but with tires designed for the terrain they face.

Unlike some Olympic cycling events, cyclo-cross isn't included.

Certain riders, like Pidcock and Evie Richards, take on various disciplines, transitioning from cyclo-cross to road racing or mountain biking.

Who is competing for GB?

Scotland's Cameron Mason, a two-time British champion, proudly wears the national jersey. Mason, considering himself a potential surprise in a field dominated by Dutch and Belgian names, sees himself as the wildcard that could make a mark.

In the men's elite category, Mason is joined by Thomas Mein, the former Under-23 champion.

Gateshead's Anna Kay is the sole British representative in the women's elite category, having recently secured her debut British title. Kay expresses confidence and pride in wearing the national jersey, emphasizing the strong position of GB cyclo-cross with many promising young riders.

Among them is Wales' Zoe Backstedt, competing in the Under-23 race. Backstedt, who won silver last year, has showcased talent in both cyclo-cross and road racing. Despite being in her second year as a pro, she has no set expectations and dreams of participating in events like the Olympics in the future.

Schedule

Saturday 3 February - Men's Under-23, 11:20 GMT and Women's Elite, 13:30 GMT

Sunday 4 February - Women's Under-23, 11:20 GMT and Men's Elite, 13:30 GMT