Toby Barnes riding in the Tour of Sussex
Toby Barnes riding in the Tour of Sussex

A Lichfield cyclist has claimed the best result of his road career with an overall second place in the Tour of Sussex.

Toby Barnes riding in the Tour of Sussex
Toby Barnes riding in the Tour of Sussex

Toby Barnes was guest riding for Shropshire-based Holohan Coaching Race Team in the five-stage event.

The 18-year-old recorded two second places and a third across the four days of competition to claim an overall second spot.

Chris Pook, who also manages and sponsors the team, said: “Toby has recently started pursuing his goals in road racing.

“As a team, we try to give opportunities to deserving young riders every year and this was a superb chance for him to show how far he has progressed in a very short period of time and to also gain some very valuable stage racing experience.

“Toby managed to finish second overall to take the best result of his road career to date – which has already featured two road wins in West Midlands regional races.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.