Sandra Alonso claimed victory in the final stage of the 2024 Thüringen Ladies Tour, overcoming challenging weather conditions and intense competition. The 105.4km route around Schmalkalden featured a tough opening climb, setting the stage for a dynamic and aggressive race.
From the outset, the peloton faced a demanding ascent, with a 5km climb at 4.2% immediately after the start, followed by a 12km climb to Oberhof at 3.2%. The rainy weather added to the difficulty, leading to numerous breakaway attempts. Teams like Lidl-Trek and SD Worx-Protime pushed hard at the front, thinning the peloton significantly.
Cristina Schweinberger, the third-place rider in the general classification, was among those who struggled in the early chaos, while race leader Ruth Edwards maintained her position at the front. The peloton regrouped around 40km from the finish, setting the stage for further attacks.
The race continued to see aggressive moves, with no breakaways sticking until the final climb of the day. Here, Shirin van Anrooij of Lidl-Trek set a punishing pace, working for her teammate Brodie Chapman. This effort reduced the leading group to a select few, including Chapman, Edwards, Kasia Niewiadoma, Sandra Alonso, and Mischa Bredewold.
After the climb, a larger group reformed, but the pace remained high. Niewiadoma launched an attack on a small climb in the closing kilometres, splitting the group once again. Edwards and several key contenders followed, but it was Alonso who made the decisive move.
Final Attack and Stage Victory
With just two kilometres to go, Sandra Alonso launched a powerful attack. Despite efforts from the chasing group, led by Brodie Chapman, Alonso managed to hold her lead, crossing the finish line first. Maggie Coles-Lyster took second place in the sprint for the line, while Lucinda Brand finished third.
Ruth Edwards finished seventh on the stage, ensuring her victory in the general classification. Edwards had built a substantial lead earlier in the tour, notably through a 60km breakaway with Margot Vanpachtenbeke on stage one and a decisive performance in the stage five time trial. Despite the relentless rain and multiple attacks, Edwards remained composed and strategically sound, securing her overall win.
Reflecting on her achievement, Edwards said, “This means more to me than I could possibly begin to describe. I don’t think I stole the yellow jersey from anyone. I think I took it and showed how strong I am right now every day.”
2024 Thüringen Ladies Tour Stage 6 result
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2024 Thüringen Ladies Tour GC result
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All photo credits: Arne Mill / T.RF Sportmarketing GmbH
