Javier Guillén, general director of the Vuelta a España, hinted that the women’s peloton might soon face the legendary Angliru climb. Speaking during a discussion held at the Casa de Cultura in Riosa, Guillén pointed to recent editions of the men’s race, where the brutal ascents have added excitement, including the 2023 stage finish at the Lagos de Covadonga. “Women’s cycling would benefit from references in men’s cycling,” he asserted, hinting at the climb’s potential future in the women’s Vuelta.
Guillén’s comments came during an event commemorating the 25th anniversary of the first professional summit finish at the Angliru, celebrated on 12th September 1999 when the late Jose Maria Jimenez claimed victory. Among those joining Guillén on stage were former riders Chechu Rubiera and Roberto Heras, who shared their own recollections of the Angliru’s impact on professional cycling. Heras still holds the record for the climb, set in 2000 with a time of 41 minutes and 56 seconds. He recounted his experience from the 2002 edition, describing it as “a unique experience and very decisive because it made many differences; as a climber, I always wished for more Anglirus.”
Chechu Rubiera, who rode for Kelme at the time, admitted he’d been initially sceptical about the Angliru stage, noting that he was very critical “because it seemed very hard and was extremely stressful, especially for the mechanics, as it was the first time a triple chainring was used on a road bike.” However, Rubiera recognised it as a “risky but highly successful choice” by the organisers.
Guillén described the Angliru as “the ultimate expression of the epic” that defines professional road cycling, and he acknowledged its unique place in the sport’s landscape. “There’s no other climb like it. It’s a phenomenon that the Vuelta needs,” he remarked, emphasising the climb’s role in shaping the Vuelta’s reputation on the global stage.
