Debora Silvestri claimed her first professional victory at the inaugural Pionera Race (1.2), finishing solo after a demanding 96-kilometre route from Real de Gandia to Cocentaina, Spain. The Italian rider crossed the line in 2:45:25, with her nearest challenger, Chilean rider Catalina Soto, trailing 46 seconds behind. British rider Awen Roberts rounded off the podium in third place.
The race saw an early breakaway attempt, but the peloton managed to reel them in before the decisive move from Silvestri. She launched her solo attack with around 20 kilometres to go, using the rolling terrain to establish a lead that proved insurmountable. Behind her, Soto emerged as the fastest of the chasers, but she could do nothing to close the gap to her teammate.
Silvestri, who had recently placed fourth overall at the Tour de l’Ardèche, seized on her strong form to dominate this new Spanish event. “I knew I had to use my legs today after the Tour de l’Ardèche,” Silvestri shared post-race. Her performance not only granted her a much-awaited first professional victory but also underlined her excellent condition in the final part of the season.
Soto Campos, who followed her teammate in 2nd place from the chase behind, was full of praise for her teammate’s efforts. “I’m proud of how we worked together. Debora deserved this win,” she said, reflecting on a strong day for the team.
Further back, Awen Roberts delivered a solid ride to claim third place, her best result of the season. “It’s been a tough season, but today felt really good. I’m happy with my performance,” the British rider said, pleased to be back on the podium.
The highest-placed Spanish rider, Marina Garau, finished seventh, with fellow Spaniard Mireia Trias securing ninth. South American riders also featured prominently in the top ten, with Jessenia Meneses finishing eighth and Ana Vitória Magalhães taking fifth place.
Silvestri, enjoying the moment, said after the race: “It’s been a long time coming, and I’m so happy it’s finally happened.”
2024 Pionera Race result
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
