FORMER world champion Evie Richards won the senior women’s race at the inaugural West Midlands Championships held at the University of Worcester.
The Malvern rider made her first appearance of the women’s series and took the lead from the start before increasing her lead lap by lap.
Fellow town rider Harriet Harnden (T-Mo Racing) was Richards’ closest challenger, with the 16-year-old finishing two minutes behind.
“It was really nice to be back on the bike as I have had illness and injury so haven’t been on the bike in around two weeks,” said Richards.
“To be able to ride and not have any problems has been really good and to race is even better.
“I meant to start back earlier but kept having problems so it was so good to be back for my first race and I will carry them on now hopefully every weekend.
“I would love to position well at the Cyclo-Cross World Championships again but it’s going to be a busy year with hopefully the Commonwealth Games and Mountain Bike World Championships, so there’s lots of aims this year.
“I have signed for Trek which is mainly mountain bike focused but they will support me in cross and I love cross but mountain bike is always the focus.”
Meanwhile, Ross Harnden (Malvern Cycle Sport) crossed the line in third in the men’s senior race while Ed Moseley (Malvern Cycle Sport) came second in the over 40s race.