The 2026 RTTC National 50 Mile Championship served up a fascinating day of racing on the J4/34 course in Cheshire, with conditions changing just enough to add another layer to the competition.

For much of the day, riders enjoyed warm temperatures and dry roads, but as the top-seeded Open riders rolled down off the start, a brief rain shower swept across the course. Although short-lived, it added an extra challenge at a crucial point in the championship, before the roads quickly began to dry again.

Despite the interruption, the racing remained exceptionally fast. John Archibald (Wattshop) produced a superb ride to claim the Open National Championship, while Laura Davies (Team Bottrill) delivered an outstanding performance to take the Women's National title. Behind them, the battle for the remaining podium places was fiercely contested, highlighting the depth of talent on display. One of the day's unfortunate moments came when Matt Rossiter suffered a puncture during his ride, bringing an end to what had promised to be a strong challenge for the championship.

The National 50 is one of the sport's toughest tests, demanding not only sustained power but also discipline and precise pacing over 50 miles. Once again, riders demonstrated exactly why the event remains one of the highlights of the domestic time trial calendar.

Congratulations to all the champions, medallists and finishers. Thanks also go to organiser Ben Norbury, Congleton CC – MyWindsock, the timekeepers, marshals and volunteers whose hard work ensured another successful RTTC National Championship.

Hear from the medallists

We've caught up with Open Champion John Archibald, Women's Champion Laura Davies, and the Open silver and bronze medallists after the finish. Watch their reactions and hear their thoughts on the race in our exclusive interviews, now available on the here: 2026 National 50 Championship – Winner Interviews, as well as across our social media channels.