Xan Crees Shines at the British National Cyclocross Championship

Team Spectra Racing, sponsored by Pearson, and Xan Crees, on her On & On, roared to victory at the British Cycling National Cyclocross Championship.

Racing at Cyclopark in Gravesend, Kent, on January 12th, 2025, Xan proved her mettle, resilience, and skill in some of the most challenging conditions cyclocross has to offer.

The Bike Built for the Challenge

Xan raced on the Pearson On and On, equipped with top-tier components that proved indispensable in the incredibly muddy & icy conditions:

• Groupset: Shimano GRX 815 Di2, providing precise and reliable shifting.

• Wheels: ERE Omnia CLR 45, delivering stability and efficiency on varied terrain.

• Tyres: Schwalbe X-One Bite’s, classed as ‘mud tyres’, offering excellent grip and control.

• Bar Tape & Saddle: Fizik Bar Tape and a Selle Italia saddle ensured comfort and reduced hand fatigue throughout the grueling race.

This setup was tailored to navigate the unpredictable combination of mud and frozen ground.

Meet the Rider: Xan Crees

Hailing from Derbyshire, Xan Crees is no stranger to cyclocross glory. 

A former Gravel National Champion, Xan has been with Spectra Racing since its inception in 2021. With a history of strong performances, including a 2nd place finish in the elite women’s U23 category at the 2022 National Championship event, she came into this year’s event ready to make her mark.

And, she returned to Gravesend with winning form… the last time she raced here, during the British Cycling National Trophy Series in 2023, she claimed victory.

Race Day Drama

The day began with a 15-minute delay as the frosty -4°C morning thawed, leaving the course a treacherous mix of frozen patches and sticky mud. 

Despite the disruption, Xan started strong, gridded on the front row alongside seasoned competitors like Anna Kay (former National Champion) and Imogen Wolff (Visma-Lease A Bike).

- A Promising Start

The race started with Xan taking 2nd position through the first half of the course. As the laps progressed, she showcased her technical prowess, excelling in the muddy sections that left many struggling. Her calm and focused approach allowed her to take the lead for several laps, battling it out in a group of three with Cat Ferguson and Imogen Wolff.

- Mud vs. Power

The course’s diverse challenges highlighted the riders’ strengths. While Cat Ferguson dominated on the flat, fast sections, Xan’s mastery of the technical muddy stretches kept her in contention. 

- The Final Lap Showdown

Heading into the final lap, Xan created a significant gap, poised for victory. However, a minor crash allowed Cat to close in, cutting the gap to just 10 seconds. With Cat hot on her heels, Xan made a crucial bike swap, switching onto the Pearson On & On for a final push. In a nail-biting finish, she held off Cat by a mere 5 seconds to secure her place at the top of the podium.

Victory in the Mud

Xan’s win at the National Cyclocross Championships is a testament to her skill, determination, and the reliability of her Pearson On & On bike. 

Her triumph in the challenging conditions of Cyclopark adds another chapter to her impressive career and sets a high bar for what’s to come in 2025.

Team Spectra riders delivered a stellar performance, with Dan Barnes securing 3rd place and Simon Wyllie finishing 5th in the Men's Elite category. In the Elite Women's category, Hope Inglis claimed 4th place and Anna Flynn took 5th, rounding out a strong finish for the Pearson-sponsored Spectra Team.

From us all here at Pearson, congratulations to Xan and Spectra Racing for an incredible performance!