Zoe Backstedt is setting her sights on a debut at the Tour de France Femmes following an "incredible" week at the British National Road Championships. The 21-year-old from south Wales showcased her prowess by successfully defending her elite time-trial title on Thursday and clinching her first British road race title on Sunday in Aberystwyth.

In her time-trial victory, Backstedt dominated the 15.9 mile (25.6km) course in sweltering temperatures over 30C, stating, "It was super hard, the heat made it 10 times harder than I think I expected it to be."

By Sunday, the conditions improved for the 79.5 mile (128km) road race, allowing her to excel. She caught and passed early leader Josie Knight, ultimately winning by almost two minutes. "It was brutal," Backstedt remarked, but she added, "I have to say I was grateful for some true Welsh weather, a little bit of rain in the morning."

With her recent victories, including a sprint stage win at the Tour de Suisse Femmes, Backstedt has accumulated nine professional wins. She plans to return to her European base before competing in a race in Belgium and hopes to secure a spot at the Tour de France this year. "It would be incredible. It's giving me goosebumps already to think about it," she expressed.

This remarkable week has capped a memorable period for Backstedt, highlighting her as a rising star in women's cycling.