Lowri Richards masters the new Ridgeway finish in sizzling conditions!

It was a scorcher in Inkberrow last weekend as the peloton lined up for Round 3 of the British Women's Team Cup. 

With temperatures hitting a sizzling 28 degrees and spectators actively hunting down any patch of shade they could find, the race was bound to be a true test of attrition.

Recognising the brutal weather conditions, the commissaires and organisers made the welcome decision to shorten the course by a lap, bringing the total distance to 84km; a call highly appreciated by the entire peloton.

How the Race Unfolded

The tactical story of the day was one of relentless pressure, but with no clean breaks. The first half of the race saw a barrage of attacks from riders trying to split the field on the rolling terrain. 

Solas Cycling was incredibly active, even launching a solo flyer late in the final half-lap to force a chase.

However, heavily influenced by a persistent wind that made solo moves tough to sustain, the elastic stretched but never completely snapped. 

Every single attack was shut down by a vigilant bunch, meaning no combativity points were awarded today.

Instead, the race came down to the circuit's challenging new finale. Moving away from the traditional flat sprint near Gooms Hill, this year's finish took the riders up the Ridgeway near Cookhill. This is a tricky, two-part drag that rises significantly before flattening out into a deceptive, power-sapping false flat to the line.

As the bunch crested the climb, Ella Tandy (Simpson Nouvelles) opened up a long sprint. 

Reading the move perfectly, Lowri Richards (Solas Cycling) launched off Tandy's wheel early. Despite a roaring charge from behind, Richards held her line beautifully to secure a massive victory. 

Amelia Staunton (Brother UK - On Form) put in a spectacular late surge, just managing to overtake Tandy on the line to snap up 2nd place, leaving Tandy with a hard-fought 3rd.

The fight for the team points on the day was incredibly tight, with two squads dominating the depth of the field.

• 1st Place: London Academy – 254 BWTC Points

• 2nd Place: FTP-Fulfil The Potential-Racing – 243 BWTC Points

• 3rd Place: Brother UK - On Form

A massive congratulations to London Academy, who just barely pipped FTP into the top spot today by a slim 11-point margin!

Today's brutal afternoon has completely shaken up the overall series leaderboard:

• FTP-Fulfil The Potential-Racing have stormed into the overall series lead, leapfrogging Loughborough Lightning.

• Solas Cycling are the day's biggest movers, riding the wave of Lowri's win to rocket up from 14th place all the way to 7th in the team standings.

Photo Galleries

• Matt de B: https://photos.mattdeb.photography/solihull-cc-road-races-2026/womensrace/

A Special Farewell to a Legend

A huge, heartfelt thank you goes out to Rocky and his wonderful volunteer team at Solihull CC for hosting an impeccable event today.

Today was a deeply special milestone, as it marks Rocky's final race as Event Organiser; a role he has selflessly and brilliantly held for many years. 

The domestic racing scene relies entirely on the dedication of people like him. Chapeau to you, Rocky, and it was absolutely wonderful to finally meet you in person today!

Next Up: Naseby Road Race

The battle continues! Set your sights on the next round at Naseby on Sunday, August 2nd (organised by Stuart Dawkins).

⚠️ Entry Deadline: Entries close in exactly two weeks on Sunday, July 18th. Don't miss out!