Willunga Hill returns with a double ascent at the 2025 Womenโs Tour Down Under, a challenge that is expected to reshape the general classification after Saturdayโs stage. Riders and teams expressed their excitement at the beachside start line in Brighton, eagerly anticipating the infamous climbโs inclusion.
New Zealand champion Ella Wyllie shared her enthusiasm with Cyclingnews, saying, โPretty happy that itโs a double Willunga. I think the harder the better, the longer the better, so bring it on.โ
Climbers poised for a battle
This year, the 115km stage features two climbs of the iconic 3km ascent with an average gradient of 7.4% and a maximum of 11%. The first climb comes 23km from the finish line, forcing the riders to descend, navigate flat terrain, and then tackle the final gruelling ascent to the top. The added complexity of the double climb and the scorching 34ยฐC heat promise an unpredictable day.
Niamh Fisher-Black is optimistic about her chances on the climb after her move to join Amanda Spratt on the Lidl-Trek team. โI did a recon of Willunga Hill, and I think it suits me. But I will see, especially with the heat here,โ said the New Zealander, who is expected to challenge for the stage.
Meanwhile, Spratt, a three-time race winner, comes into the event in strong form after her aggressive performance at the AusCycling Road National Championships in Perth. Her history on Willunga and current condition mark her as a top contender.
Contenders ready to rip it up
Last yearโs podium finisher, Neve Bradbury, is also tipped to perform well. Despite being far from her peak form, the 22-year-old remains confident. โIโm not at top form because itโs January and I have some big goals later in the season, so it didnโt make sense to be at my best,โ Bradbury explained. โBut I think Iโm in good enough form, so Iโm excited to rip it up in the next few days.โ
Wyllie, who finished seventh last year, is back with a sense of calm after her debut season. โItโs really nice to be back again with the team. In your first year, there are extra nerves. Now, I know how everything goes, and us girls just know each other so much better. We just have so many more cards to play,โ she said.
The GC shake-up begins
The general classification saw its first major reshuffle after stage 1, where Daniek Hengeveld surprised the peloton with a superb solo breakaway to win. She carved out a 43-second lead over Ally Wollaston, though the top 64 riders remain within 49 seconds, leaving plenty to play for on Willunga Hill.
Last yearโs single ascent of the climb saw just the top ten riders stay within 47 seconds of stage winner Sarah Gigante, who also took the overall victory. With a challenging course profile this year, including a flat section between the two ascents, the gaps could grow even larger.
Main photo credit: Getty