Things got sticky in the Czech Republic town of Plzen for the second round of the UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup.

Thick mud and freezing temperatures combined to test the riders to the limit, but ‘crossers are a hardy bunch who thrive in such conditions.

Among those who excelled was seven-time British champion, Helen Wyman (Kona Factory), who produced a strong performance to take another step closer to her first World Cup win.

Wyman was one of three British women to finish in the top 10, with Nikki Harris (Telenet-Fidea) joining her on the podium by sprinting to third place and Gabby Day finishing ninth.

Photographer, Balint Hamvas, was on the spot to capture these superb images.

Heavy conditions characterised the racing in Plzen, just 70 miles from the opening round in Tabor, but significantly more challenging

Remaining upright was a constant battle: one lost by the rider falling in the background 

Nikki Harris (Telenet Fidea) joined British champion, Helen Wyman, on the podium with a strong ride to finish third

Katie Compton (Trek) showed Harris and Wyman the way home to claim her first World Cup win of the season

Klaas Vantornout outperformed teammate, series leader, and defending champion, Kevin Pauwels, to finish second