Joanne Acha of Stourbridge Cycling Club rode all 12 WMCCL events in 2025/26 to take the Masters 55-59 Female title. She represents what our league is all about – a great rider able to stay the course – consistently finishing in the top-20 of our Women’s race. That was enough to beat her teammate and cyclocross-legend Isla Rowntree into second place, and Alison Bagnall of Rotor Race Team UK into third.
Here’s Jo’s account of her season.
“Firstly, thank you to all the organisers, clubs, Marshals and volunteers that have made this years WMCCL happen. It’s been a fantastic season with the addition of new venues, my favourite being Himley which was one the few races where I had a great start on the wheel of Cerys Styler leaving my nemesis Eleanor Betts for dust!
I came into this season with not much expectation to win the 55-59 Women’s category as it is a strong field and very competitive. However being consistent and persistent paid off! The Women’s league has grown in numbers since I started cyclocross 5 years ago. I really enjoy the rivalry and camaraderie that we have so well done to all the ladies who competed in the league this year also wishing a speedy recovery to Cerys and Genny.
PS. I might be known the some as Jo Slider, if you know 😂 “.
