I have been around the downhill scene for four years. The first year I raced with my sons Simon and Mathew and I won a few races and loved every minute of it. In the second year I had a massive ‘off’ and displaced my shoulder at an uplift day at Moelfre, this put me out for the season, as at my age you don’t heal so well! This left me concentrating on Si and Matt. As the lads got better and better I took a back foot on the riding and focused on mechanicing and keeping things running smoothly for the Ride On team. We have grown from the small races to competing on the World Cup circuit, which I’m very proud.

In 2012 both Matt and Si got an entry into the Val Di Sole World Cup in Italy, where Si broke his wrist. This left his bike free for the season. I knew the National Champs was at Moelfre, a track I like, so I spent the £60 and got a race license, then got myself an entry into the Grand Vets.

Saturday practice Matt towed me along, showed me his lines and got me up to speed. Qualifying came around and I was three seconds off first position. At the top waiting for my race run I didn’t seem to have a care in the world until my name was called. I had a great run until I reached the 4X section where I made a balls–up and then just pedalled like hell to the finish. I ended up winning by 0.7 seconds over Stevie Felstead. I couldn’t believe it, my first race in two years and I was National Champ!

The best bit about it all was the reaction I got from everyone, all Si and Matt’s friends, fellow riders and people we know came over with enthusiastic congratulations. It was brilliant.

Then came the podium, National Champs jersey, gold medal, Champagne and photos with likes of Gee, Rachel and Farmer Jac topped off an amazing day.

I have done a few races since the National Champs, and wearing the jersey really does make you feel proud. Especially when you see people having a cheeky look when you’ve got it on. Winning the Champs hasn’t really changed me, I just seem more confident in myself and when you go blasting past someone with your mates in tow, it’s quite funny but also cool to hear them say “don’t worry, he’s a National Champ”.