A cyclocross racer overcame a muddy course to secure a top ten finish at a recent championship.

On Sunday, November 24, Wightlink-Wight Mountain CRT member Oli Nolan travelled to Dalton Barracks, near Abingdon, Oxfordshire for the ninth round of the Wessex Cyclocross season, which also incorporated the South Regional Championships.

Oli said: "I am happy with a top 10 on a tough course with tricky conditions, especially after a break from racing. I have also earned good points towards my overall league position. Thanks go to our sponsors, particularly Wightlink and Wight Mountain, as well as Mark at Take3Tri for putting on a fantastic event!"

With Storm Bert's arrival, much of the course turned into a "rutted mess", while a few paved sections provided some relief from the mud.

Starting from the second row of the grid, Nolan began well, running just outside the top 10.

As the race continued, he managed to overtake several riders.

The torrential rain had washed away surface gravel and grass in parts of the course, revealing sharp rocks that caused punctures for many competitors, resulting in a tough race.

Nolan crossed the finish line in eighth place overall and seventh among southern riders.