The Crosscast

In Episode 13 of Season 9, Neil, Xan, and Matt look back on the 2025-26 cyclocross season.  They talk through the World Cup, which they agree had zero duff rounds this year, but are disappointed that Terralba is missing from next year, just as it is finding its identity.  They reflect on the rules on scoring for Superprestige, that meant points-tied Van Alphen took the series ahead of Fouquenet, despite having zero wins and fewer head-to-head victories and finishing behind in the last round.  Whilst the X2O series is clear at the sharp end, there remains an odd rule where those getting 80%d (i.e. lapped) or DNF appear to have a better series outcome than those finishing at the back end of the lead lap.  Neil has homework... next season he promises to track it to look at strategies.They also look back at the Rising Stars and those Struggling to Shine last year.Of course they look forward to the 2026-27 season with the Glasgow World Cup, and note some interesting calendar details, such as a very early Dendermonde, and the current lack of a Hope Supercross series.Finally, they gives a heads-up on some of the rule changes, including a dispensation for bar width in the UK (for some races, but not all), and the ultra important rule on race celebrations for youth riders.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 12 of season 9, Neil, Matt and Xan report back from being on site at the 2026 Cyclocross World Championships from Hulst, both from working inside the media trucks and shouting from the other side of the side.  Bringing the fresh memories of all experiences of the World Champs, they discuss a full-on septet of superb races.  Of course, they also unpack this year's podium picker competition in which they did a lot better than 2025!  Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 11 of Season 9 Neil, Xan and Matt give their predictions for the 2026 #cyclocross World Champs and you can too at https://tinyurl.com/hulstcx26 😊They look back on the finale of the 25-26 World Cup with races from #maasmechelen and #hoogerheide , both of which Xan was racing.  She gives her views from being on the ground... well, on the bike... and - yay - didn't have any mechanicals!  In a season where there were a lot of rounds compressed into just a few weeks, and the furthest distance between venues was about 1500km, they talk about what could be a wider spread to make it a true 'World' Cup.The focus of the show is on the World Cup that will come from Hulst.  They make their predictions for each race - a great way to talk through who they think are the ones to watch!  For this year's World Champs Matt will be on the UCI mic, Neil will be on the tape courseside, and Xan will be on the sofa glued to the telly.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 10 of Season 9, Neil, Xan and Matt look back on the National Championships from South Shields.  Xan looks back on her race and her second place finish, after doing the jersey proud for the past 12 months.  Neil also revisits the weekend where he was also racing and working with Grity.They give their views on the planned changes to the National Trophy Series that will be introduced next year.  There is a lot to look forward to and things will be different.  Whilst they welcome a much-needed refresh the devil will be in the detail, and the reduced number of UCI rounds will be missed.They also look back on the Benidorm World Cup, which Matt was commentating on the UCI World Feed, and in which Xan was racing.  The races turned out to be really entertaining and another opportunity to show how the venue would make a credible World Champs.In the Laatste Ronde, they look forward to the next two World Cups - Maasmechelen and Hoogerheide.  Both races have given us fantastic action in the past and will be under the spotlight as Xan takes to the start, and Matt puts words to the action.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 9 of Season 9 Neil, Xan and Matt look back on their highly committed many hours of cyclocross watching, racing, working and commentating with a look back on the second half of the Kerste Periode.  They send comiserations to those riders crashing out for the end of the season and hope for quick recoveries.  They look back on the final round of the National Trophy that came from Irvine.  It was a magnificent event, that proved very popular amongst those who made the trip to Ayrshire.  Neil gives the details of his race and reports back on the overalls.  In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the National Championships that are due to come from South Shields in the UK.  They review the course, and the front runners for the elite men and elite women.  They also discuss the live coverage that will be provided on YouTube.They also touch on other key National Champs including a mini preview of the Ireland course.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 8 of Season 9 Neil, Xan and Matt extract themselves for 'cross duties to chat through the Kerste Periode with some stunning racing.  After giving birthday greetings to Xan and Neil, they look back on the A to Z of Antwerp to Zolder, the sand of Koksijde and Hofstade and the missing mud from Gavere.With new stars starting to shine for mid season from Del Grosso and Fouquenet we have a new crop of riders ripening nicely.  Despite this we still have the literal case of Brand and Vanderpoel winning everything that they enter... can they keep it up?Looking forwards there is a ton of racing to keep up with, from Dendermonde to Baal and the classic of Zonhoven just a few days away.  They also give some preview and insight into the final round of the National Trophy 25-26 which is due to come from Irvine.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 7 of Season 9 Neil, Xan and Matt jump into a mega few weeks of  cyclocross goodness. Neil reports back on Hunsworth National Trophy with its December mud, cracking course, and great atmosphere. They mention the parking nightmare that unfolded - oof. Neil also reports back on his local racing at a very old classic venue, and compares notes with Xan who was bringing in a top 6 at Kortrijk and getting a solid amount of TV-time for her stripy jersey and shiny new Van Rysel bikes.They review Namur with what was some frankly goose bumpy racing that has to go down as one of the most impressive men's and women's races for some time. With the return of Neff being a treat, Pieterse a treat², and Van der Poel a treat³ we had skills, personality, battles, and power galore. Xan gives the insight into how it was on the ground, especially those bits where Nys and Van der Poel were... on the ground.They give a bit of a PSA regarding bar width ready for rule changes and then preview the upcoming bunch of races coming from Antwerp, Koksijde, Gavere, Zolder. SO MUCH to look forward to.Neil wonders... will the Koksijde results compare to 2015 when it was: (daddy) Nys, Van Aert, Van der Poel, Van der Haar, Sweeck, Meeusen, Aerts.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

It is Crosscast Episode 100.  Thanks to all of you who have been here since the start, and we've loved collecting listeners over the years.In Episode 6 of Season 9, Neil, Xan, and Matt cast their minds back to a frozen Tabor which turned out to be a classic.  Great racing, incident-packed action and skills and power both on display.  Xan talks us through her race with her cracking start meaning that missed the early melee while the race settled down.  The men's race had so many great performances, marking ingredients that could give us a super season.They also think back to Flamanville which was a total contrast to Tabor, and tricky in lots of different ways.  They talk through how both Nys and Mason have matured markedly for this year.In the Laatste Ronde, they preview Round 5 of the National Trophy that will come from Tong / Bradford / Hunsworth (choose your title) as well as Cabras / Sardinia / Terralba (choose your title) World Cup with its microscopic start list, and Namur that will be awesome because it always is.Neil bumbles through an attempt to explain why he really likes Kortrijk, and Xan nails it in one go!Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 5 of Season 9, Neil, Xan and Matt review the European Championships in which Xan brought home a top 20 for GB in the Elite Female category, and had two totally contrasting races for the Elite Men and Elite Women.  Xan gives the inside story of how the race went, and just how tough the course was.  They also talk through the two bike frames that took some of the limelight from being a chimera Orbea for title-winning Aerts, to a UCI DQ for a frame that was... apparently... approved the day before the racing.Round 4 of the National Trophy is reviewed, a race in which Neil was competitor, team manager, pit crew and shopkeeper.  It was Hard Work for everyone behind the scenes after a dumping of rain before the race, but the course itself was decent - challenging skills, fitness and pit crews, and it delivered close racing.They return again to the tricky question of what the future of the National Trophy should look like, as it becomes more of a challenge for organisers.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the opening of the World Cup, with races in Tabor and Flamanville.  Xan will be racing both rounds and so listen in for her throughts, and come back next time to hear how she gets on.Neil finishes up getting very over-excited about some new Grity kit that has arrived just in time for Christmas shopping!  Pop over to www.grity.co.uk to check out the new kids long sleeve jerseys and their Full-Send sale!Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In episode 4 of season 9 Neil Xan and Matt kick off with a few memories of how important Lars van der Haar has been to cyclocross racing across the world, now he has announced that this season will be his Laatste Ronde, his final season.The look back on Clanfied Cross, that finally proved its potential after a tough start last year.  Neil and Xan talk about their own races, and in true CX-tradition, talk tyres.  They also touch on the form of race winners Ffion Drake and Thomas Mein who are looking to take a clean sweep of the series if they can keep it going.  The quick decisions taken by comms regarding application of the 80% rule is covered, whilst trying to avoid the endless depths of the 'to 80% or not to 80%' generic debate.They also look back on Koppenbergcross, a race that was 'just right' on the 3-Bears Scale in terms of conditions.  Not too dry, and not too wet.  And just right for Nys and Mason who took a confident and controlled 2nd place.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to Round 4 of the National Trophy, coming from a new venue with 'Sand' in its name.  Sandwell Valley is new to all of the Crosscast Trio but they give as much info as possible, and hope that it gives some of the fun that can come from similarly built venues.They also look forward to the European Championships to come from Middelkerke. Xan Crees is on the start list, alongside a mega-strong and mega-deep British Squad.  Good luck all of you racing, supporting, pitting, and spectating.  Enjoy the beach.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In episode 3 of season 9 Neil Xan and Matt review the Falkirk National Trophy with its tough course, and wet conditions.  Neil reflects on his experiences, and how the racing unfolded over the weekend.  Meanwhile Xan returned to Sweden where she had a successful series of 4 races, with a win and two further podiums... a first UCI win in the National Champs jersey.They return to the topic of race entry field size, and the viability of the National Trophy series in its current form.  In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to Round 3 of the National Trophy, coming from Clanfield.  The course itself has had minor tweaks, and keeps its character with purpose built features, another wall to keep those studs polished, and places to test out your skills.  With sponsorshop from AVA washers, you don't even need to lug your washer (unless you want to)!They also look forward to two of the classic contintental courses - Overijse, a full-on 'trail mix' with a bit of everything, and Koppenburg the iconic course on a small piece of land that has become so steeped in cycling history.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 2 of Season 9 Neil, Xan, and Matt review the Three Peaks, the legendary race that Neil raced, Xan pitted, and Matt watched from the social feeds. Neil recounts his own experience where despite a Pen Y Ghent prang, him and Lotta won the parent-daughter category. They also look at the sharp end where Jenson Young took the course record to take the win along with Briony Halcrow in a really interesting field. They also review round 1 of the Derby National Trophy with its changing conditions, fast racing, and early indicators into season form. Xan reports back on her close racing and the 6-up bunch sprint for podium places 20s behind Ffion Drake, this season’s early powerhouse. They preview round 2 that will come from Falkirk with its return to the calendar after being missed last year. They also preview the Swedish CX series to which Xan will return after having a cracking time last year.  And finally, Neil waxes lyrical about his newly designed Grity ‘Rutland’ CX studs that will be an essential for Falkirk, and the new line in greetings cards.  Also listen out for Matt-on-the-mic for gravel worlds UCI feed this weekend. Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 1 of Season 9, Neil, Matt and Xan are back after a summer on the mic and on the bike... Neil got an injury and also a win, Xan dropped the watts on crits and grave, and Matt has been putting words to World Championships MTB, as well as road racing and e-sports.They look back at the Hope Supercross series with four UCI races in 9 days.  Whilst all on the same course, there was variety due to the weather and the night racing.  It did give an early indication of those who have stepped up, and they take note of the rising stars of the sport, anticipating what will happen this season.In the Laatste Ronde they preview the Three Peaks, the epic, historic and legendary race that will have its 61st edition in 2025.  Neil is racing and isn't totally confident of being able to repeat a 2nd place in the parent/daughter competition last year, but is feeling on form and ready to go.  They look through the start list and agree that there are a lot of wildcards for the win.  Could we be looking at a youngest-ever winner?... or could Jebby repeat the feat now he is a masters 50?They also preview Round 1 of the National Trophy coming from Derby.  Another absolutely classic venue that somehow entices riders to push as far as they can, and sometimes too far!  It's a fantastic venue and race so get your entries in and get your spectating planned.It's great to be back.  See you soon!--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps! Follow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks! Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 13 of season 8 Neil, Matt and Xan review the Lievin World Champs with its magnificent team relay that was exciting even with just the live timing. They cover all the races and The Crosscast Podium Picker competition in which Xan proved her expertise unlike Matt and Neil who didn’t have a great year!  Was the course exciting, dull, challenging, or just confusing?  What do you think?In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to a much changed National Trophy calendar and a very unchanged World Cup. Neil predicts a change in regs to allow for SEVEN Belgian rounds 😜. Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 12 of Season 8, Neil, Matt and Xan unpack a pair of tough races that rounded out the World Cup.  Xan gives her on-the-ground review of just how tough they were, at the technical-tastic Maasmechelen and total classic of Hoogerheide.  They give thoughts on the World Cup as whole and whether the compressed calendar worked.The most important competition of the year is on us all!  Yes it is YOUR chance to compete in the annual Crosscast Podium Picker Competition at tinyurl.com/podium25 The Crosscast Trio give their podium picks for the upcoming World Champs... can you do better (probably), and can you do better than anyone else in your household (possibly).Can't wait.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 11 of Season 8, Neil, Matt and Xan look back on the recent goings on in the world of cross.  In a show that has more ups and downs than the Loenhout washboard (AKA the 'oopsie whoopsies') they travel from the ice of Cyclopark to the Mediterranean sunshine of Benidorm.This week the National Body has received a lot of criticism and they unpack the issues surrounding World Championships Selection and the decisions not to fill places in the Elite Women and U23 Men categories.  They review the selection process and consider whether it gives the best outcomes, and whether it was followed.They also get some insight into the (lack of) TV coverage at the National Champs and talk through the hits and misses for the event as a whole.  Xan is excited to preview the World Cup finale double weekend coming from Maaaaasmechelen and Hooooogerheide where she will have a chance to admire the National Champs stripes in the famous courseside mirror wall.  Don't get distracted Xan!Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

CROSSCAST LIVE from Cyclopark Gravesend.  Live from the cafe, Neil Matt and Xan talk through the action from the National Champs. The big news is that Xan did it - she is National Elite Cyclocross Champion! Awesome.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 9 of Season 8, Neil Matt and Xan look back on the end of the 2024-2025 Kerste Periode remembering an entertaining Baal with Van Empel only leading the race for about 1 metre (the most important 1 metre), and Iserbyt at his best.  Koksijde added Sweeck to the list of legends, and Dendermonde was somehow a great watch despite some dominant rides and its usually ultra mud bath course.  The talk about Xans' peak in form with best ever result in a Belgian World Cup coming just before the National Champs.The final round of the National Trophy partly came from Bradford with day 2 cancelled due to snow.  What a disappointing season for UCI racers, especially when the younger and older riders got a full 5 races.  In the Laastse Ronde, they look forward to this weekend's National Championships; always a highlight of the season.  In addition to the key Belgian and Netherlands competitions, they have a deep dive into what to expect for the British National Championships coming from Cyclopark.  They are also given all the dirty details from Huw Williams, someone who knows every centimetre of the course.  With no TV expected this year, make sure that you get down to the side of the tape in Gravesend, and tune in to The Crosscast Live coming out on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 8 of Season 8 Neil, Matt and Xan catch up in the middle of the busiest time of the CX calendar, the Kerste Periode.  With so much action they bring you a full show covering classics such as Zonhoven and Hulst, Diegem and Loenhout, with a decent look at Besancon.Xan takes us through her experiences racing on some of the most challenging parcours of the year, and gives us insight into how she approached the barrage of huge fields, winter weather, and technical features.Despite some dominant performances in some of the world cups, there have been a bunch of cracking races, including multiple career bests, some slow-burn races and others with gripping sections (for the men's racing, the start of Zonhoven, end of Diegem).  One of the most compelling to watch had to be women's Loenhout... no spoilers here!They preview the finale of the National Trophy Series, Baal, Koksijde and Dendermonde, and give more information on what to get excited about in the build-up to the National Champs just 2 weeks away.With all of this World-class stuff going on, they also don't neglect local racing with Neil reporting back from his adventures.  Respect to race organisers and volunteers during this busy time - chapeau.📸MikeMazout 👌Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 7 of Season 8 Neil, Matt and Xan catch up after a memorable few weeks… and Xan tells us how she is after her TV-time and horrible incident on the Namur bank. They catch up on what happened and what didn’t at Clanfield National Trophy and Cabras / Namur World Cups.  Neil raced day 1 of Clanfield (25th and fun had 😊) as did the regional champs crews in a very welcome and successful return to regional competitions.  The main winner of the Clanfield / Cabras UCI weekend seemed to be the weather.  Namur World Cup was certainly a huge challenge and saw a whole host of riders ejected off the front of the bike.  Do they deserve a special memento like the Martin Baker Ejector Seat club membership?They also give a full preview of Kerste Part A - the famous five, Hulst Zonhoven Mol Loenhout and Gavere. Set your alarms and take a recovery day off CX on the 25th. Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 6 of Season 8 Neil and Matt are joined by Xan after her adventures at the World Cup that kicked off in Antwerp and then in Dublin.  Xan gives us all the details of the course from a rider's view with insights on the course, the atmosphere, the (lack of) grip, and we have to say it is awesome to see that Xan has got the top 50 World Ranking that has been a target for a while - ace job!  Meanwhile Matt gives us insights on what they were doing to the sand that he could see while on the mic for the UCI World Coverage.They reflect on the start of the World Cup and how Nys has not been having a nice time, how Iserbyt has not been looking relaxed and the fantastic form of Brand.  Of course, they talk through the lap 1 incident when Boros' nose wheelie caused chaos behind.Closer to home, Neil reports back on the Yorkshire league, and the destiny of his wheels that were lent to a newcomer after the sticky mud made gravel tyres a disaster.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the upcoming National Trophy from Clanfield, a new venue for the Trophy and a place with a reputation already, of technical, hilly, and a rewarding race.  They also look forward to another newcomer, the World Cup from Cabras where there is not a lot of detail currently available; while there could be elements reminiscent of a Mediterranean version of Antwerp... who knows.  Sadly, it seems that many of the front runners are choosing to take a break, but of course this opens up opportunity for others to show their potential.Also coming up there is Namur - a superb classic.  Just watch it.Matt gives some early info on the UK National Champs; don't forget to save the date to race or spectate!.... watch this space for news.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 5 of Season 8 Neil and Matt (and TheGrityKitty) catch up on Round 3 of the National Trophy that came from Torbay and delivered an unexpected fast and dry(ish) course with technical flow. They talk through the tactical racing and even dip into a few stats comparing this year to last year.  Neil corrects an error from last show and educates himself on Pearson Bikes and DAS. They reflect on the grim course from Niel, and talk about how individual features like ‘the Hamme bank’ can affect racing. After a slight interval to put the cat out, Neil explains how this season is going to be like a classic serial, with 3 volumes. Volume 1 is coming to an end… Volume 2 will be the World Cup starting shortly, and Volume 3… well, listen to find out 😀. Questions from listeners are ‘answered’ - did you do better in remembering who won Hamme in 2016?  Looking ahead there is a superb GB squad heading to Antwerp including Crosscast regular Xan Crees (Spectra p/b DAS).  Good luck all!Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 4 of season 8 Neil Matt and Xan look back on the past few weeks of racing. This included Xan’s ongoing adventures in Sweden as well as her return to the Koppenburg.  Matt is back from the 2024 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships, and whilst the tech remained bug free… he got infected by a virus and so a little croaky today 🦠.They look back on the south Shields National trophy where both Neil and Xan were racing. The course was fast, but remained a challenge.  It should be a worthy venue for the 2026 National Championships. They also talk through the European championships, which gave race after race of action, even if team GB were conspicuous by their absence. But don’t fret - the legend Vic Barnett still brought home a Masters gold medal🥇to Welland Valley. They debate the merits of gravel racing and are pretty much in agreement that it’s a good thing for the sport as a whole although riders will struggle to excel in both, if they try to jump straight from gravel into cyclocross without a break. Ask Xan if you need details!In the Laatste Ronde they preview the upcoming national trophy coming from Torbay, which is expected to be a contrast to what we saw at the first two rounds.  But there might also be a contrast to what we’ve experienced there in the past considering the weather forecast for the next few weeks. Time will tell whether we get another ‘Paignton’ course that will cut up and result in Ton of Pain.  Will we see a repeat with plenty of bike changes or are we going to get something fast and a new experience for racing down in Devon?Please remember to support the show and support those that support the sport! Pop over to Buy Me a Coffee to help us with Crosscast costs, make sure that you give Xan and her team Spectra pals a shout, and drop by the Grity shop or website to take a look at some riding kit goodness.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Epidode 3 of Season 8 Neil, Matt and Xan look back on One National Trophy, Two races in Sweden, and Three Peaks.They remember 2017’s Season 1 Episode 2 of The Crosscast when they mentioned Zoe Roche and Finlay Goodman who were U10s. Class shows… Zoe just won Juniors at the Derby National Trophy and Finlay just won the Junior World X-Terra title. Awesome. In Crosstalk, Neil re-lives a memorable 3 Peaks, that certainly went to plan… but maybe the plan wasn’t perfect? They talk through how Jenson Young just didn’t have fortune on his side, and how Giles Drake’s luck flipped from the 2022 edition, this time retaining his title, along with Bryony Halcrow. Neil managed to join Lotta in 2nd place parent-daughter which he will always be delighted with, but of course try to beat next time.Round 1 of the National Trophy from Derby delivered close racing at the front of the women’s race with Baker, Kay and our Xan Crees taking the podium and Xan tells us what happened in that final half lap. While Mein took a solid win ahead of the Barnes duo, behind there were huge bunches forming and breaking with early (or is it late?) season form being put to the test. Xan recounts her second and first place finishes in what sounds like an awesome series coming from Stockholm. Get out there next year, people!Of course the much-viewed Ryan Kamp / Eli Iserbyt stamping and DQ are discussed. It wasn’t a great look for the sport… unlike Lars Van der Haar taking his first victory in a well controlled race where he waited and went at exactly the right time. In the Laatste Ronde they ask whether anyone repairs tubs these days, and highlight the amazing support on offer from leagues, including WMCCL, as well as Ride for Charlie. They also preview Round 2 of the National Trophy giving you all the information you need to get the best out of your weekend of North East action in South Shields. And just to round out all 4 points of the compass, will the West Wind blow after Neil cursed the Tyneside weather?Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 2 of Season 8 Neil and Matt are joined by Spectra’s Xan Crees fresh from her complete set of Hope Supercross finishes.  They reflect on how the series has quickly become established and has attracted riders from across the world to the joys of Yorkshire Cross. They highlight who is standing out as starting the season on form and who has more to give. In the Laatste Ronde they preview the awesomeness that is the Three Peaks coming in a few days.  Xan gives her top tips on what to expect as a rider supporter, and Neil gives his thoughts on his entry.  It’s wide open again but there are some fresh faces racing it for the first time who are serious contenders. The National Trophy kicks off in a few days - don’t forget your entries! (and don’t forget to support the new fun race 😃). Round 1 is back to Derby, one of the most popular venues of the season.  Listen in for all the latest and have fun out there!Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 1 of Season 8, Neil and Matt look forward to the 2024-25 Cyclocross Season.  It is a very strange one in terms of calendar that will come in a series of distinct chapters  September is all about Yorkshire.  We kick off with the Hope Supercross series of 4 UCI C2 races in the UK in a short block - a must for anyone chasing the UCI points.  Then there is the diversion westwards for the Three Peaks which Neil is returning to… listen to Episodes 2 and 3 for his plans and whether they worked!The National Trophy is fairly standard this year, back to it's tried-and-tested weekend race schedule and kicking off in Derby, and running through to January, visiting tried-and-tested venues.  There is the new fun race (sponsored by Grity) which gives opportunity for racing to those who might be otherwise occupied on the Saturday, rather similar to the fun race at the National MTB Series that has been a great success.  Get your entries in and give it a go!After the European Champs, we get the first World Cup which accelerates into an ultra-packed two months of action that could be awesome, with some FAN-tastic double-header weekends, and an opportunity for global riders to base themselves in Europe and compete for the entire series, although there are no races any more than about 1000 km from Full Speed Events' studio near Limoges - i.e. 100% EU.The finale of the season will come from the National Champs from Cyclopark and the World Champs from Lievin, France, at which we will be having the annual Crosscast Podium Picker competition!Stay tuned for what promises to be another cross-tastic season.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 12 of Season 7, Neil Mansfield and Matt Payne are joined by Ian Field to review the 2024 World Championships that came from Tabor, Czechia.  The weekend started with a compelling team relay where strategy was key, and where GB were just pipped to the line by France.  Surely this race needs to be covered in full with dedicated graphics to make it more accessible to the less obsessive CX fans out there?They talk through how day 1 saw Gery take her second jersey of the weekend and how the race with Ferguson could have unfolded differently in a different universe.  U23 men and Elite women's races went to form, with Van Empel's huge win being the biggest gap for years... this caused Neil's Crosscast podium prediction score to be scuppered - yes he is still gutted.A badly timed puncture meant Sparfel could not make it 3 golds for France but gifted the win to wobbly-wheel Viezzi.  The predicted but no less impressive dominations from Backstedt and Van Der Poel give Ian, Matt, and Neil plenty to talk about, not least of which was Matt's impromptu invitation to / unintentional gatecrashing of Zdenek Stybar's family party.  The biggest take-aways from the weekend are that we have worthy winners of the jerseys, France are on the up with a mega strong squad 12 months from a home World Champs, and that each of Ian, Neil and Matt were shown up by their family members in terms of predicting the podiums.One more show, and then it's season's end.  See you then.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 11 of Season 7, Neil and Matt are joined by cyclocross talent, coach extraordinaire, and commentator on Discovery+, Ian Field.  They review the 14th round of the World Cup that came from Hoogerheide and query whose form is peaking when... some were at the end of a training block to prepare for the World Championships, and others seem to be coming along just nicely potentially challenging for a jersey next weekend.They discuss whether Belgian Cyclocross is going through a rough patch with few of the podium places at the race or series going back to the country, with the Netherlands taking home most of the prizes this year in the World Cup.  They talk through whether 14 rounds is too many, or whether reducing it would undermine the concept of a series and allow riders to just dip in for part of the season and still take the series.  They also agree that the points in the U23 competition are plain silly daft, and should be fixed for next year - an easy change that will make it fairer.In the Laatste Ronde they preview the biggest weekend of 2024, CX WORLDS coming from Tabor, Czechia.  They talk through the course and each category in detail.  This is unmissable listening for anyone wanting to get the most out of the World Champs or just impress your friends with your detailed knowledge straight from those who have raced there multiple times, or at least worked in the pits 😁.  Neil, Matt and Ian make their predictions... can YOU do better?  Join in at the Annual Crosscast Competition that you can find here.  Please share with your clubs, teams, friends and family to see who can do the best.https://forms.office.com/e/s5bWfqRaLLEnjoy the weekend!Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 10 of Season 7 Neil and Matt look back on a fabulous Falkirk National Championships with its perfect January weather, superb location, awesome atmosphere and cracking course. They talk through each of the UCI category races, with Mason defending his jersey and Kay taking the title for the first time.  Both were popular wins with the local crowd for Mason and Kay having been a CX pro for a while, and the win coming 5 years after her first time on the National elite podium.   They talk through the action from further down the elite field, things that were not shown on the TV coverage.  The juniors saw Ferguson have an impressively dominant ride worthy of someone ready to take on the World's best with her imminent movi to Movistar, and first year Oscar Amey took the Junior Men's title meaning that the jersey will be on show next season. They talk through the National Champs from other nations including the Netherlands and Belgian races with a host of winners coming with season back-stories. Benidorm World cup is reviewed, a race that saw a huge amount of grit on show for all of the podium finishers, none of whom had an easy ride, with Alvarado repeatedly chasing down the dynamic duo at the front, and even Van der Poel showing that he can have a bad day.  The big question remains... if the commentator's curse is real, should Matt take some of the blame/credit for Van Aert's tumble on the hurdles that delivered even more action at the race finale?Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 9 of Season 7, Neil and Matt pull together a bumper show as a special for those of you who have long drive to Falkirk to watch or even race at the British National Cyclocross Championships.The final round of the 23-24 Trophy is reviewed, a race that came from Tong where a respectably rideable course was a great achievement for a race that coincided with serious floods and waterlogged ground across much of the UK.  They also talk through what makes an event a success... and agree that it is much more than just a race course.They finally open the can of worms reviewing practicalities of the National Trophy, geeking out over numbers and asking whether the drop in competitors this year is the next step in a multi-year decline and question why.  Neil quizzes Matt on whether he can guess which 4 National Trophies have had the highest and lowest entries over the last 7 years (go on... can YOU work it out?!).While much of the show is a deep dive into organisation, there is also plenty of racing covering the World Cups from Hulst and Zonhoven, and also a bit of Baal with a side of Koksijde.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to what is set to be an enthralling National Championships from a spectacular venue with hugely competitive fields across all categories.  Will the favorites bring home a jersey or could some wildcards spring a surprise?... Can Imogen Wolff challenge for an U23 podium riding up from Juniors or could she be battling with Nikki Brammeier (who was on the U23 podium the year Wolff was born)?  And listeners, we hope that you take careful note of the family battles... can younger brothers get the better of the older in the Askey, Barnes, Chilton, and Amey households?Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 8 of Season 7, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by cycling icon, Canyon SRAM sports director, and expert pit crew Magnus Bäckstedt.  They review the first half of the kersteperiod that has featured fully loaded A-Z of start lists (Alvarado to Zoe Bäckstedt) a featuring World Cups with the sand of Antwerp and the mud of Gavere.  They talk through a great edition of Zolder with Van Aert clocking up a hat trick of consecutive Zolder wins, and the annual excitement of Diegem.The incident involving Matthieu Van Der Poel and Felipe Nystrom is unpacked, with views exchanged on how to keep the front of the race clean, while keeping racing further down the field meaningful. They also talk through some great form from Del Grosso, Cant, Mason and up and coming juniors Ferguson and Wolff.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to Hulst (fun fun fun), Baal (hmmm), Koksijde (over-rated), and Zonhoven (woohoo!).They preview Tong National Trophy, the final round for 23-24 season... and Magnus gives a Crosscast Exclusive that Zoe Bäckstedt will not be defending her National title for 2024, as she prepares for the World Champs.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 7 of Season 7 Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by Lars Van Der Haar, simply one of the most successful cyclocross riders of his generation.  They talk about the cyclocross community and fitting in family with CX, as well as how young riders can be inspired to pursue sport by the pros.  While chatting through the action from Herentals and Namur they talk through race tactics and how the Van Der Holeshot can be important in keeping a race under control, and of course they mention the fabulous starts from Matthieu Vanderpoel and Ruby James (💪💪💪).  Lars reflects on how an early puncture at Namur meant he needed to chase for the whole race, although Pidcock was, as expected, in his element on the Citadel.  They also discuss how Alvarado, Brand, van Empel and Pieterse are peaking in form.In the Laatste Ronde they talk through rider-favorites from the Kersteperiod, and how Lars will be missing Zolder this year despite having a fantastic track record there.The big question remains... will Lars ever manage to add Richard Groenendaal's autograph to his collection?Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 6 of Season 7 Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by legend of cyclocross development Steve Grimwood.  Neil and Steve were both fresh back from the Masters World Championships from Hamburg that turned out to be a proper winter wonderland, giving Val di Sole a run for its money in terms of snow and ice.Neil reports back on his experiences in Germany, and some of the many memorable GB performances that included titles for John McGrath, Sally Reid, and Luke Mahoney. They cover Flamanville that will be remembered for the ducks as much as the racing.  Val di Sole marked that half-way point in the World Cup and delivered some popular new World Cup winners in Bakker and Nieuwenhuis both of whom showed how to stay chilled under pressure in the snow.  In extremely changeable conditions Gravesend delivered some new Elite UCI winners in Xan Crees and Ben Chilton, both of whom showed their strengths on a technical and difficult circuit finishing ahead of top class opposition, including the returning Millie Couzens and Isla Short.Steve, Matt and Neil discuss just how often the unexpected happens in cyclocross, whether it's ducks on the course, fires in the arena, dramatically changing conditions, or the main course inadvertently not being opened after the start loop, and how it must be taken on board by riders and support teams. Steve gives an insight into what must be considered by the organisers when the unexpected happens and quick decisions are needed. Before entering the Laatste Ronde they discuss the breaking news that Tong will not be a UCI race, but then go on to preview Namur and consider what races would be good for Pidcock, Van Aert and Van der Poel to make their returns.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 5 of Season 7 Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by cyclocross talent Ruby James, having her best season for ages and doing those Hope Factory Racing colours proud.  They talk through her experiences racing at the World Cups in Troyes and Dublin and how she has worked with the Hope crew to get the best out of her season.They discuss the Paignton National Trophy that delivered a challenging and fun course, mixing up mud, a bit of running, and some open faster sections.Neil reports back on his block vising several local leagues (3 cracking venues and totally different in character), in his run up to the Masters World Champs from an icy Hamburg, which is where he will be when the show is uploaded.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to Trophy 5 from Cyclopark and the already iconic Ride for Charlie steps, and World Cups from the city of flames (Flamanville) and the valley of sun (Val di Sole).And most importantly it's great to hear that Matt is recovering well after his scary high-speed crash in France, with a life-saver helmet and emergency transfer to l'hôpital.  Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 4 of Season 7 Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by GB coach and CX guru Matt Ellis.  Matt E was fresh back from the European Champs that saw GB feature on 4 of the 7 podiums with a win and three silvers across Team, Junior, U23 and Elite in male and female categories.  They talk about EvoDevo https://www.evodevocycling.org.uk/ and how much it is benefiting GB riders at a key time of development.  They are back from the first trip and planning on Trip 2, which you can help with the CrowdFunder link above. The National Trophy from Derby is covered: a course that needed finesse and skill as well as power, and Neil tells a tale of a lap 2 puncture 😭 that sealed 😁 but despite the 'send it through the ruts and hope' strategy, meant that he never really got established in the race.They talk through how Koppenberg gave an opportunity to enjoy some outstanding technique, and hinted at form ahead of the European Championships.  Pontchateau was almost cancelled due to the storm but Neil and Matts were blown away by some excellent GB performances, and development for those further down in the fields.In the Laatste Ronde, they look forward to the Torbay Trophy and World Cups from Dendermonde that has an intriguing start list, especially as Mason and Bäckstedt have taken wins there in the past and will be on a high after Euros, and Troyes that looks like a classic French course (and you can take your pick on whether to go with the Yorkshire or French pronunciation).Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 3 of Season 7 Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by top USA talent Keira Bond (@keira.bond). Keira has recently made an impact on the UK scene, racing cyclocross for @cxdtrekbikes and already a regular podium visitor.  Keira gives us a great insight into the USA scene, and the Waterloo World Cup course, as a rider who raced it last year. Neil and Keira reflect on their experiences at round 2 of the National Trophy from Thornton Hall, both of whom feeling like they have unfinished business and looking forward to a reset and restart at Derby.  They get into a detailed discussion of how to describe mud, using the full vocabulary that only true cyclocrossers can appreciate.  Matt prompts Neil to express some of the benefits of the new NT schedule because they've not had as much profile as the negative aspects that are widely shared on the socials. They question how to remember the 2023 Waterloo World Cup - both Nys and Van Empel gave a masterclass but in such different ways, one of them being flamboyant and exciting and the other skilled and controlled.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to a top couple of weeks racing including Derby National Trophy, where Neil gives Keira all his top tips, as well as Maasmechelen from where Matt will providing UCI commentary, and everyone's favorite Koppenburgcross which Neil loves so much he put it on a T-shirt 😉.  Then we have European and Pan-Am Champs, of which Keira is already a veteran.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 2 of Season 7 Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by 'CXOli' - Oli Akers - from Ribble Verge cyclocross team.  Oli brings us up to speed on his MTB camp with Trek Future Racing and his speedy start to his season, characterised by his speedy starts. Neil and Oli go into fine detail on their racing in South Shields, how they found the course, and how Oli managed to come on top in a sprint and Neil... didn't (oh come on... it was a photo finish with identical times to the 10th!).  The men's race had a familiar podium with Mein and Barnes Bros taking the 1-2-3 but the women's race had a new winner in Elenor Day (yes, my top tip  😂) followed by Baker and James with a result showing she's back on awesome form and ready to take on the CX season.  Keira Bond finished in a strong 4th, fresh over to the UK from USA, and someone we hope will be able to race the whole season.Matt, Oli and Neil discuss the biggest talking point of the weekend, the change in schedule, which certainly changed the feel of the event... is it too soon to see whether it is better or worse on balance?  In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to next round of the National Trophy coming from a new venue at Thornton Hall.  A course that is described as being either up or down or the pits, and on the same site where you can pick pumpkins can hug a baby goat.  What's not to like?They also preview the first round of the World Cup due to come from TREK's car park at Waterloo.  Could this be the first World Cup win for Nys Jr or will the more established riders pick up where they left off last season.  Since recording the show the start list has been published and it includes several exciting names from the MTB world including former winner Neff, but also has a lot of names missing.  Essential viewing for sure.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

The Crosscast is back! In Episode 1 of season 7, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio, by freshly crowned National Elite gravel champion Xan Crees. They get the inside story of Xan's win for Spectra Cannondale over at the Kings Cup National Championships.Before the cyclo-cross purists get too jittery, they quickly refocus on the early cyclocross season, reflecting on the Hope Supercross series, the three UCI C2 races, promoted in partnership with CX North East, North West Cyclocross Association, and Yorkshire Cyclocross League. It was certainly a good stretch of the legs early season, and a mini-series that has lots of great features and will hopefully grow in future years.Whilst Neil missed racing The Three Peaks, Xan was able to bring some course-side insights being support crew for team Spectra, and experience of the grizzle weather. Huge congratulations to everyone that finished the epic event. It was of course fantastic to see Giles Drake (Wheelbase) come over the line having taken the overall win after a catalogue of misfortune in the past.  Bryony Halcrow took the women’s win in dominant fashion being the only woman to come in under four hours.They get into the detail of ranking points in the UK, and at the UCI. It will certainly be interesting to see if the alterations to the British Cycling ranking point system will make any difference to rider race programs, whether it will encourage riders to travel more or to travel less, and whether it will give some of the smaller leagues a boost in some of their categories.In the Laatste Ronde, they look forward to the next big rice on the calendar UK, round one of the National Trophy coming from South Shields. It happens to clash with the world gravel champs which means a few front runners might be missing for this race but of course we are just speculating here 😉.Neil‘s cat decided to call an end to the show when it attacked his microphone, but I am happy to report that both cat and Neil are fully recovered from the altercation.@thecrosscast @crosscastneil @mattfixerpayne @xancrees @the_grity_kitySupport the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 15 of Season 6, Neil and Matt look back on the season as a whole and reflect on the final standings in the X2O and Superprestige series. In a season that was affected by injury and incident, but kept fresh by having close racing at the front week in, week out, they decide on their own riders of the year for UK female (with shortlist including Baker, Backstedt, Crees, Strathdee, Weijack, Day), and UK male (with shortlist including Barnes, Akers, Mason, Pidcock)... and then World female (with shortlist including Holmgren(s), Van Anrooij, Pieterse, Van Empel) and World male (with shortlist including Van Aert, Van der Poel, Sweeck, Iserbyt).  They also select their UK race of the year (with shortlist including Clanfield, Ispwich Masters Worlds, Derby, Falkirk, South Shields) and World race of the year (with shortlist including Diegem, Hoogerheide, Zonhoven, Hulst, Benidorm). What do you think?They look forward to next season's World Cup with its similar calendar to last year but now down to just one non-European date. They also review the recently announced 23-24 UK National Trophy series that is looking like it will be another cracker, despite the only UK UCI race listed (at the moment) being the European Cup race at Clanfield. It has to be said that UK Trophy race organisers are doing an awesome job at the moment 10/10 :-) But... they both get a bit argumentative when it comes to the change in race schedule which makes them both a tad baffled of how it will work practically, and whether it will achieve what it sets out to, or end up being counter productive.  Hopefully more clarity will come over the next 6 months.And finally - thanks all the guests who have made this season a joy to record, and all the buymeacoffee donors who have enabled the Crosscast to exist. You rock.See you on the other side of the summer.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 14 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined by Ian Field to review the 2023 World Championships that came from Hoogerheide. Matt, just back from UCI / BBC commentary duties, Ian, just back from GCN / Eurosport commentary duties, and Neil, just back from sofa duties, reflect on a weekend that started with a GB Silver in the relay, and built to what will inevitably become an iconic sprint finish in the elite men's competition, between Van Aert and Van der Poel.After a Canadian 1-2 in the women's juniors and compared to what we have become accustomed to, a noticable lack of Dutch and Belgian riders in the younger catergories, they discuss how the profile of CX might be changing. They talk how Van Anrooij definitely made the right decision to race U23 lining up the possibility to be the first woman to collect all three world champs jerseys, and Backstedt who could well aim to beat her to it. And did the Netherlands teams gift Nys the win by poor tyre choice?... and should Van Aert have at least considered a 'plan b' for the final sprint? Word of the day must be - bamboozled.  Before looking ahead to the final races of the season, they give a run down of how well they did in the Crosscast World Champs Prediction competition.And stop press... the announcement came in during recording... Van Empel will race to end of the season after all, Lucinda must be gutted.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 13 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined by cyclocross talent and 5 times British Champion, Ian Field. They look back on the final two races of the World Cup that both delivered the unexpected. Benidorm, a fast race that was reminiscent of the early season dry events, was full of action and, in the end, decided the World Cup series with Sweeck and Van Empel taking the titles. They also review the rather strange weekend before the World Champs with Besançon no longer being quite the World Cup finale as expected, but giving a fitting French finale to Chainel's career, but others with a whole host of different agendas.The main focus of the show is previewing the upcoming Hoogerheide World Championships, a venue that Ian has raced 9 times. They look at what to expect from the course and where to expect the action. They also give their predictions, tips and insight into each of the 7 races. Can you do any better with your predictions? Pop over to https://tinyurl.com/crosscast2023 to give YOUR tips 😎.And over the weekend, you can get to hear both Matt and Ian giving TV commentary on GCN and the UCI depending on where you are.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 12 of Season 6, Neil and Matt take a look at CX fashion week, where riders decide who is going to be wearing which colours for the next season. Naturally they focus on the UK Champs that came from Milnthorpe with its extra contribution to the 'Lake' District. The look at the thrills and spills that came from a tough course that really split the fields and ended up with the fewest riders finishing on the lead lap for many years.They also look back at how the extended points regime in the National Trophy has resulted in much more interesting racing for the non-elite riders, and a motivation for many to complete the whole series.Looking to Europe, they review action from key nations including Ireland and the Netherlands, and of couse Belgium where Cant continued her phenomenal streak of winning every National Champs since 2009. They also report on the news that Spectra Wiggle p/b Vitus will be undergoing some big changes for next year... watch your feeds for news.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the MC* Hamme X2O and the finale of the 22-23 World Cup with racing coming from Benidorm and Besancon, with Benidorm looking like it will be a suprisingly packed field of CX talent. (*Marvellous Course)And will we see even  more escalation of the Vantourenhout / Sweeck battle on the bike?Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 11 of Season 6, Neil and Matt look back on (yet) another series of cracking races from Belgium and the UK. They go from the puncture affected woods of Herentals, to the dunes of Koksijde. They also wonder how much Chumbawumba can be invoked*, with Riberolle getting up again after her knock down at Gullegem, and pretty much half the field coming a cropper in the revised... and dare we say improved... epic of Zonhoven.They look back on the second UK UCI double-header of the season with the tough Clanfield Cross, and what is now surely a classic at Cyclopark.  And in the week after the British PM announced that he wanted to improve the maths abilities of 18 year olds they wonder if he had the right idea after all... after the elite series medals were awarded to the wrong riders on the day.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to , and attempt predictions, for the hotly anticipated British National Championships coming from Westmorland, a course that will test riders... we just hope that injury hasn't removed Mason and Kay from the starts, but with such a stacked field of CX talent, the racing is sure to be awesome. Be there people :-) (*if you don't remember Chumbawumba... try Spotify 😎)Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 10 of Season 6, Matt and Neil are joined in the studio by CX talent, Lotta Mansfield fresh from her block of Belgian action over the early Kerstperiod. Lotta talks about the experience of racing for Montezuma's Race Team on the continent and back home in the UK. They review what has proved to be a series of ace races, with battles from Gavere in the draggy mud, Zolder being reminiscent of previous tight editions, and Diegem being a night to remember. Loenhout with what will become a classic sprints, and Baal... being Baal.Sadly, the predicted Baal broken bones came true and they talk through whether the course can continue to be used in its current form.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the double header of Montezuma's home race from Clanfield and the National Trophy finale coming from Gravesend. They also preview the continuing series of Kerste races - Herentals, Koksijde, Gullegem and Zonhoven. And do you agree with Matt - Koksijde is no longer the hotly anticipated event that it once was?Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 9 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by Junior CX talent, Oli Akers fresh from (yet) another win in the National Trophy. Oli talks about his season, and how things are taking shape at Garden Shed UK Ribble Verge CX. He talks about the balance of risk and reward, and how much he is anticipating the end of the season with a series of big-ticket races across Europe.They review the ice conditions that were experienced at Barnoldswick and how they responded to the challenge of racing in the cold and slidey conditions. They also review all of the action from Val di Sole (spoiler - there wasn't a great deal in the end), and debate the balance of risk and reward and the challenges facing organisers in the balance of designing courses that are pitched at the right level for a sport that inhernetly carries some risks.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the upcoming Kerstperiode and preview Gavere, Zolder, Diegem and Baal. And also mention Mol and Loenhout on the way. So much CX goodness in such a short space of time - listen up for all you need to know and what to look out for.Happy Kerstperiod everyone!Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 8 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by World Champion Ceris Styler, fresh from defending her jersey at the Masters World Champs. They give a full run down of all the fun from Ipswich, and talk through all of the GB podiums from what was another awesome event from Steve Grimwood and the whole organising team.They also look back at the racing from Boom and Antwerp, and what amounted to a Hollywood-esque pair of elite races from Dublin, with action from start to finish. They talk about how Wout has an undefeated track record in big races when someone shoves a foot through his wheel and Neil rolls out the 'throwing in the towel' meme. They debate whether Pieterse was overly optimistic hopping congested barriers, or whether lines were defended a tad too agressively by the opposition. They also reflect on the fantastic performances from the GB squad, and give respect to Cycling Ireland for providing such a forum for a large team to get experience on the biggest stage.And questions are asked... who are the favorites for the World Champs in the women's field at the moment?... and does it matter that the women's National Jersey hasn't seen any action since it was won last January? And will the National Trophy overall be won by Baker and Barnes, as time is running out for other contenders? This week's quiz question is when did Pidcock, Van Aert and Van Der Poel last take to the same start line?In the Laatste Ronde, they look forward to a pair of races that appear to be entirely dependent on the weather. Val di Sole will certainly be picturesque, but will it bring exciting racing? And Matt gives Neil and Ceris lessons on how to pronounce Barnoldswick, the venue for the penultimate National Trophy. Make sure you listen up to avoid muppetry with the locals.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 7 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by off-road uber-talent, Evie Richards, who not only gives all the information on her recent success at the highest level of sport, but also of plans for a return to cyclocross, and experiences at the Western and West Midlands local leagues. Evie also gives Neil some tips on how to manage his gridding at the Masters World Champs.They are also joined by Gareth Richards, the brains behind CX HUBZ, to talk about how grass-roots CX is growing the UK, and also about experiences of being a parent of a professional young athlete.Neil and Matt review the most recent National Trophy, and consider whether Paignton delivered a Ton of Paign on a course that gave all riders a tough day out.  They also review the stuttering return of Pidcock and the impressive return of Van der Poel, on some pretty awesome, if tricky, courses. They also reflect on how Pieterse is thriving as the conditions get more and more difficult, and the hospitality offered by locals when cross comes to town.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to established and new World Cup courses from Antwerp and Dublin, the home of the trolls in Boom, and of course the imminent World Masters Championships that is a focal point for many riders on the UK scene this year.And can YOU answer the randomly fiendish quiz question of when was the last time that the elite male and female world champ both took the win at the same race?... Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 6 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined from Belgium by Spectra Wiggle's Xan Crees from the middle of her European race block. They get all the insights from Xan who has been on the ground at almost every one of the big races this year.They cover all the action from Koppenburg with the memorable wins for Van Der Haar and Van Empel, and the race that Prevot will want to forget. They cover the return of Alvarado to winning ways at Niel after a 2-year hiatus., and a first World Cup win for Van Anrooij after Pieterse and Van Empel's complacency (or was it?) at the bell. They also reflect on the European Champs - both the elite and masters results, with another superb haul of medals for the British vets, just a few weeks before the Masters World Champs.There is the debate on which jersey should Van Empel and Pieterse wear at the next World Cup (which is carefully tiptoed round), and most importantly they have received fan mail from the operator of the cablecam.In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the upcoming races from Merksplas and Kortrijk, that might see the return of Pidcock, and the return of World Cups from Overijse - which might or might not have the killer climb into the pits off the start, and from Hulst. They also preview the next round of the National Trophy from Paignton and Andover Supercross.It's been a cracking season so far... and before you listen, do you know the answer to the question of before Namur, when was the last time Vos and Prevot went head-to-head on a CX bike?Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 5 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by Ed Beechinor-Collins, who is not only Thomas Mein's coach but UCI and UEC Commission member. Ed brings us fully up to date with plans and asipirations for the European Cyclocross scene, including the potential for a European Cup, and for international races with Youth and Masters catergories.In today's Crosstalk, the recent National Trophy rounds from Falkirk and South Shields are discussed - both of which proved to be outstanding riders' courses. Oof, it's a tough challenge for best course of the year this season! They also reflect on Sweeck's World Cup win, after 8 years of being at the sharp end of Elite races. There are yet more developments coming from Cyclopark, and Neil queries whether Vos has a technical innovation in riding with a light at Woerden. In the Laatste Ronde, they preview Koppenburgcross, acknowledging that the race would occur after the show hits the feeds - you can evaluate whether they got anything correct in the predictions... (spoiler - just watch it, folks :-) ).  They also preview the upcoming European Championships coming from Namur, that will include all categories including Masters. They also preview the next round of the World Cup from Beekse Bergen, which is desribed as 'Zonhoven before it became famous'.  Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.

In Episode 4 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by Montezuma's Race Team's Amy Perryman fresh from a summer of off road riding and kicking off her Trophy season in Derby.In today's Crosstalk they catch up on all the action from the Derby National Trophy, talking detailed positioning of barriers, happy riders, and whether Brammeier is back, or is back-back. They also pay respects with a moment's silence for Scotty Chalmers' (ex) cool carbon canti frame whose seat tube was impaled on a spike and debate if that meant Scotty was lucky or unlucky. They also agree that rider of the day was... Elena Day, with her impressive moving up the field as she moved up to U23 racing.They also look back on the action from the twin USA world cups with its exciting racing, the twin wins for Iserbyt and Van Empel, and the new twins on the block: Canadians Ava and Isabella Holmgren, being just 17 and achieving twin top 20 finishes.In the Laatste Ronde they look forwards to rounds 3 and 4 of the National Trophy with all the info from Falkirk and the Antonine Wall, and from South Shields where you are dared to take your cossie and go for a dip in the North Sea. World Cups from Maasmechelen and Tabor are previewed - one new, one classic, but both promising to offer bags of entertainment. They also quiz Amy on Ruddervoorde, a course which she raced on a couple of seasons ago. There is also an update from Cyclopark, which is expecting to have a venue tweak, so the modern classic can have a bit of maintenance and a fallow year.They even dip into a bit of tech talk, talking tyre gauges, teams shifting shifter suppliers, and introduce the first appearance of the 22-23 Wrath of Chronos.Thanks so much to everyone who has supported the show at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast where you can also buy us a virtual coffee! Proceeds go to paying for hosting fees.Support the show--To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast to make a donation towards our hosting fees - every little helps!  You can watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrosscastCyclocrossFollow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks!  Neil Mansfield @crosscastneil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne @mattfixerpayne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees @xancrees races for OGT USE.