HALESOWEN Cycling Club youngster Alex Barker defended his WSD Tour title with victory in the Netherland.

The 13-year-old tasted more international success at the stage race in Eersel last week.

Barker won the 2016 edition of the contest and was back to defend his yellow jersey one year on.

The tour comprised seven different races over five days, including two time trials, three circuit and two road races.

The Stourport High School student took third place after the initial time trial but won the yellow jersey on the second day with successive victories.

Victory in Tuesday’s road race and Wednesday’s circuit race saw Barker open a 10 point lead over the chasing group.

The lead was cemented by a superb bunch sprint win in the final classic road race.

With wins in 2016 and 2017, the HA&CC member now plans to go for the hat-trick in 2018, the final year, due to his age, that he will be allowed to compete in the tour.