In a thrilling showcase of speed and teamwork, New Zealand’s Michaela Drummond clinched victory at the first-ever Région Pays de la Loire Tour for Women. The race, classified as a 2.1 event by the UCI, unfolded over 116 kilometres, circling the picturesque town of Saumur in the Maine-et-Loire department. Drummond, showcasing her sprinting talents, surged ahead in the final stretch, outpacing a select group of ten riders vying for the win.
Expressing her elation, Drummond shared, “What joy! What a victory! I’m naturally over the moon to claim my first win wearing the colours of Arkéa-B&B Hotels. My gratitude extends to all my teammates for their incredible support. Just a few days ago, I was under the weather, and now, to triumph in this inaugural Région Pays de la Loire Tour for women is simply astonishing.”
The race was not without its challenges, as detailed by Franck Renimel, the team’s sporting director. “Today’s race was an emotional rollercoaster. We took control early on, only for a crash to force three of our riders to withdraw. Yet, Michaela Drummond’s fantastic finish brought smiles back to our faces. We’ve always known her sprinting prowess, and she proved it yet again today. This marks the first victory of the season for the Arkéa-B&B Hotels Women’s team, capping off a strong start to the year highlighted by impressive performances.”
St Michel-Mavic-Auber93’s Victorie Guilman finished 2nd with Lucinda Stewart of ARA | Skip Capital rounding out the podium in 3rd.
2024 Région Pays de la Loire Tour – Féminin result
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