"I wasn't really expecting it” - Millie Couzens crowned British national champion for the first time

Last weekend, Millie Couzens claimed the British national road race title, securing the prestigious jersey for the first time in her career. Her win capped off a remarkable week in which she also won the under-23 women’s time trial.

"I wasn't really expecting it," she explained to Cycling Weekly yesterday. "I was already happy with that. And then obviously, the road race was my main goal for the week. But I knew even if that didn't go to plan, it was nice. I had got something out of the week already."

Heading into the road race, Couzens sensed she was in strong form but still needed reassurance. "I thought my form was quite good, but it was a confidence boost to know that my legs were there."

As the race unfolded, she pinned her hopes on a sprint finish. "I wouldn’t say I was fully confident, but I thought a sprint was probably my best chance," Couzens explained. "I’ve had a few results from sprints this year, so I know I can do well if I start in the right position and launch at the right time, then it probably is my best shot. I just had to fully commit and hope."

The closing stages saw a tense tactical battle, with Couzens finding herself slightly outnumbered. "At one point, I think there was just me and Anna, and then three Picnic riders. It played out well for me in the end, but you never really know what they're going to do. It makes it a bit more difficult when you're a bit isolated in that kind of situation."

In the aftermath of her victory, the reality of wearing the national champion’s jersey is still sinking in. "I think next week I'm out racing, and once I actually have the jersey on, maybe then it will feel real. But at the moment, no, it still doesn't really feel that real."

Looking ahead, Couzens is aware that her newfound status will bring more attention. "Before no one really knew who I was, but now I’m going to stand out, so that’ll be different."

As for the type of racing she relishes most, Couzens is still refining her strengths. "I prefer a hard race with some punchy climbs and then probably a reduced group sprint. I'm still learning and just trying out different kinds of races and different situations and seeing what works well for me and what doesn't."