A teenage cyclist from Cornwall has set a new record in a time trial in which he also competed against elite riders. 

On Sunday, May 9 the Laddock Valley Time Trial course was the setting for the South West 10 Mile Time Trial championships.

Harry Jukes who lives in Praze took on the challenge in the junior category which is for under 18 riders.

Harry races for the Mid Devon CC Junior Race Team now, but is also a long standing and current member of the local Wheal Velocity Cycle Academy for youth riders, based at Baldhu near Truro. 

The youngster finished his run in a time of 21 minutes 23 seconds, almost a minute ahead of his nearest rival to take the title of South West Junior Champion, as well as taking the junior course record by almost a minute.

Harry also managed to finish eighth overall against elite riders who compete at a national level.

He said: “I was so pleased I was able to start the new season with such a good result, and I can’t wait until the road racing starts up, I am really looking forward to making my mark on the national scene.”

The course had dried up after the previous days rain but there were still strong winds blowing making it a very testing morning for all the riders.

Harry took advantage of the outgoing tail wind to get some time in the bag for the return half which was straight into the strong headwind.

“I had planned to do the first half of the course as fast as I could and then try and remain as aero as I could back down the valley into the headwind reducing the effects," he added. 

"I knew I had the power to keep up a good pace as long as I kept my riding position good, and I’m glad to say my plan worked!”