A HORWICH cycling ace says the chance to rub shoulders with some of the best riders in the sport has made him determined to achieve more success.

Joseph Peatfield took part in the North of England championships recently and finished second against a tough field of riders.

But the youngster also raced at the UCI World Cup weekend as the junior national trophy event was held before the professional race and he really loved the experience.

He said: "The atmosphere was great especially racing before the professionals.

"The crowds were a lot larger than normal and the course was also exactly the same as the pros and that made it even more exciting and challenging.

"I did see most of the other riders but most of them were foreign so they didn't speak much English but fans were allowed to walk around the team buses."

The weekend saw a lot of British riders in action and Peatfield wants to be part of it again.

He said: "I hope so, it would be great to race for the UK at such a high level and hopefully the sport will develop in the UK in the future."

Since joining Horwich CC, Peatfield has completed a full North West Cyclocross season.

He said: "It has been going well, I have won the overall league for the juniors (under-18s) and have won numerous rounds.

"I have also managed to finish fourth place in the senior league (under-40s) with a few podium places.

n If you want to find any more information about Horwich Cycling Club then visit www.horwichcycling.co.uk or alternatively check out @horwichcc on twitter.