Irvine Cyclo-cross …. Jan 2026

I was lucky to be able to attend the final event for the Lloyds Cyclo-cross National Trophy Series of 2025-26.

Cyclo-cross is cycle racing over rough terrain with steep hills, twisting tracks and tough sections where the riders must dismount and carry their bikes. In this particular event there was even a section that required riders to cross a section of sand on the beach. Races are held for different classes for men, women, kids, with different age ranges.

This event took place on the land behind the dunes at Irvine Beach in Ayrshire , making use of the contoured terrain of the Beach Park.

The set course is 2-3 kilometres long and the number of laps in each race is determined by how many the leading rider can complete in a set time – 45 mins.

It’s superb photo opportunity – with a great selection of action shots and a challenge to look for those different compositions that really illustrate the expertise and endurance of these riders. The effort to get up those hills, the struggle along the beach section, the speed downhill, and the facial expressions when they get to the top of a hill and they look down and see the challenge ahead of them.

Click of the gallery below to get a feel for this great event.