A HANDCYCLIST from Pencarreg is stepping up his preparations to represent Great Britain in the World Championships.

Luke Jones recently competed in the World Cups in the road race and time trials in Belgium and now heads off to Portugal next week for another prestigious event against tough opponents, held between 9 and 13 June.

Luke, who was paralysed in a road traffic accident 18 years ago, said: “Shortly after the World Cups I was made aware that I was chosen for the World Championships which will be held on the Formula One circuit in Portugal.”

The 37-year-old, who is hoping to be selected for Team GB for the Tokyo Paralympics, added: “With worlds selection announced I decided to enter the first race of the British series in Leicester the weekend before last.

“I needed some racing in the arms to sharpen up for the worlds. I came away with a win in the road race and the time trial.”

Finding his way back to peak condition with no races held during Covid restrictions, the former double British champion said: “My daughter was able to come with me to this event so it was nice having a friendly face at the side of the road.

“Hopefully as things get back to normal I can have more family and friends come to watch me.

“The worlds schedule has been announced and, with a longer TT and shorter road race, the race dynamics for the worlds are not what I like but with a small change to the bike setup I hope I can adapt pretty quick and put in a good performance.

“My goals for the worlds are a top 15 in the TT and with a little bit of luck at the start of the road race I back myself to be in the mix at the end.

“Being part of the British team still feels surreal and competing with the best athletes in the world is a dream come true.

“Seven years ago I had some negative feedback, which I nearly listened to.

“I nearly didn’t try handcycling, I wasn’t even sure if sport was for me and now I’m competing for the best team in the world against the best athletes in the world.”