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.

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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 is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel @gritykit, and Matt Payne runs Full Speed Events @full_speed_events. Xan Crees races for Team Spectra.