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Live: 2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 4

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TERUEL, SPAIN - APRIL 30: (L-R) Stage winner Marianne Vos of The Netherlands and Team Visma | Lease a Bike, Olivia Baril of Canada and Movistar Team, Charlotte Kool of The Netherlands and Team dsm-firmenich PostNL, Lily Williams of The United States and Team Human Powered Health, Ingvild Gaskjenn of Norway and Team Liv AlUla Jayco and Mischa Bredewold of The Netherlands and Team SD Worx - Protime sprint at finish line during the 10th La Vuelta Femenina 2024, Stage 3 a 130.3km stage from Lucena del Cid to Teruel / #UCIWWT / on April 30, 2024 in Teruel, Spain. (Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)

This is the stage on the 2024 Vuelta Femenina that looks most ideal for sprinters. It’s a steady downhill with not much climbing compared to tough days like yesterday. Once through the first half of the stage, the sprinters who have got through ok will be licking their lips at a fast finish.

What could throw a spanner in the works is the wind. The first half of the stage has plenty of areas that look absolutely perfect for echelons to form and the wind is looking like it will encourage that too. The second half of the stage sees the wind direction change though so that it is more front-on and less likely for the race to split up. There’s the potential for a GC rider to be a big loser today.

Overall race preview can be found here with a stage preview here.

Live Coverage

The race starts at 12:50pm with the live coverage starting at 2:30pm

Live on Eurosport/Discovery across Europe
NOS in Netherlands
Peacock in USA
Flobikes in Canada
SBS in Australia

All times in BST

Live Race Updates

A quick preview look at La Classique Morbihan 2024

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La Classique Morbihan will be back for its 9th edition in 2024. It forms a double-header with its sister race the GP de Plumelec-Morbihan, which as the slightly older sister just about holds a little bit more prestige. The dates and times of the races play into that as well. La Classique Morbihan takes place on a Friday, traditionally a little bit of a quieter day rather than the prime-time weekend spots.

The winners list contains plenty of big names over the years with both Christine Majerus and Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio winning twice here. Chloe Hosking won the first edition in 2015 before the dual winners took their victories between 2016-2019. Covid naturally delayed the race’s return with no edition in 2020. When it returned Sofia Bertizzolo took the victory with a small solo break in 2021. That played out similarly in 2022, where a break of around 8 riders all went clear before playing games that saw it all split up with the finish line in sight. Cypriot Antri Christoforou claimed the honours by 3 seconds.

Finally, in 2023 Gaia Masetti was the latest solo winner (shown below) with an Italian top-4 rounding out the following positions. With some riders focusing on the Saturday race, La Classique Morbihan has the habit of throwing up some interesting possibilities when it comes to riders taking the victory.

Gaia Masetti La Classique Morbihan 2023
Gaia Masetti wins in 2023

Which teams are racing at La Classique Morbihan 2024?

  • Ceratizit-WNT Pro Cycling
  • FDJ-SUEZ
  • UAE Team ADQ
  • ARA | Skip Capital
  • ARKEA-B&B HOTELS
  • BTC City Ljubljana Zhiraf Ambedo
  • CANYON//SRAM Generation
  • Cofidis Women Team
  • Cynisca Cycling
  • Doltcini O’Shea
  • Hess Cycling Team
  • Lifeplus Wahoo
  • Liv AlUla Jayco Women’s Continental Team
  • Primeau Vélo-Groupe Abadie
  • St Michel-Mavic-Auber 93
  • Tashkent City Women PCT
  • Team Komugi-Grand Est
  • Top Girls Fassa Bortolo
  • WCC Team
  • Ladynamips La Roche Vendée Cyclisme
  • Team ELLES-Groupama-Pays de la Loire
  • Lanester Women Morbihan
  • Team Centre-Val de Loire Féminin
  • Team Féminin Chambéry
  • VC Morteau-Montbenoît Féminin
  • ISR Israel
  • UKR Ukraine
  • FRA Bretagne
  • UVCA Troyes Féminin

What does the La Classique Morbihan route profile look like?

Where can I watch the La Classique Morbihan 2024?

Unfortunately, I don’t believe the first women’s race of the weekend will be shown live.

Who are the main riders to watch?

  • Victoire Berteau
  • Alessia Vigilia
  • Nina Buijsman
  • Loes Adegeest
  • Alicia Gonzalez
  • Emma Jeffers
  • Kaia Schmid
  • Matilde Vitillo
  • Victorie Guilman
  • Dilyxine Miermont
  • Yanina Kuskova
  • Karolina Kumiega
  • Dominika Wlodarczyk
  • Silvia Persico
  • Eleonora Gasparrini
  • Fariba Hashimi
  • Marta Lach
  • Mylene de Zoete
  • Kathrin Schweinberger
  • Anastasiya Kolesava
  • Michaela Drummond
  • Amandine Fouquenet
  • Lucinda Stewart

Startlist

Vuelta Femenina 2024 Stage 4 – Wind may frustrate sprinters

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LA RODA, SPAIN - MAY 03: A general view of the peloton competing in echelons formation due to the due crosswind during the 9th La Vuelta Femenina 2023, Stage 3 a 157.8km stage from Elche de la Sierra to La Roda / #UCIWWT / on May 03, 2023 in La Roda, Spain. (Photo by Dario Belingheri/Getty Images)

Tomorrow’s Stage 4 of the Vuelta Femenina appears to set the stage for the most obvious showdown of this year’s race for some of the world’s top sprinters. The 112-kilometre journey from Molina de Aragón to Zaragoza looks, on paper, to be tailor-made for fast finishers like Charlotte Kool, Marianne Vos, and Blanka Vas. But a deeper dive into the route and weather conditions suggests we may see the peloton fractured by more than just raw speed.

Route Analysis

The profile for Stage 4 is predominantly downhill, which would normally encourage a fast, straightforward sprint. However, the gentle descent through Spain’s scenic heartlands is deceptively tranquil. The route winds through open farmlands, which are notorious for being susceptible to crosswinds. Historically, stages like this have transformed from expected mass sprints into tactical battles as teams attempt to create echelons and split the race.

If any team wants to inflict losses on rivals, they can do it here. Famously Demi Vollering was caught short on a similar stage last year and lost too much time to claw back later on.

2024_Vuelta_Espana_Femenina_Stage_3_Profile

Key Sprinters to Watch

  • Charlotte Kool: As one of the formidable top-tier sprinters in the peloton, Kool will be looking to dominate the flat finish. Her explosive speed makes her a prime candidate for her first victory of the 2024 season if it comes down to a bunch sprint.
  • Marianne Vos: A veteran with an uncanny knack for positioning, Vos’s experience could be crucial in navigating potential crosswinds.
  • Blanka Vas: Typically more at home in punchier, rolling stages, Vas’s power could see her well-placed in a reduced sprint if echelons do indeed form.
  • Maggie Coles-Lyster and Georgia Baker: Both riders have shown they can compete at the highest level, and tomorrow provides an opportunity to upset the established trio of favourites.

Weather Conditions and Tactical Considerations

Current forecasts predict winds that could reach up to 30 km/h around the early-midway points of the stage. This is the critical sector where the route is most exposed, and the right combination of wind direction and team tactics could lead to significant splits in the peloton. Particularly around the 28-45km mark and then again between 64-72km.

Teams with strong classics specialists and those well-versed in echelon formation will likely try to push the pace here, looking to isolate sprinters who are less comfortable in crosswinds. This strategic point might not just shape the stage, but could also have implications for the general classification, particularly if any of the top contenders find themselves caught out.

While the stage is ostensibly set for a sprint finish, the real drama could unfold around the 60-kilometre mark where the wind exposure reaches its peak. Watch for teams like Team SD Worx, Movistar, and Trek-Segafredo to take the initiative, potentially turning what looks like a predictable sprint stage into a thrilling, tactical affair.

If the winds remain moderate and the peloton intact, expect a high-speed contest among the top sprinters. However, if the crosswinds do their damage, the stage could be a showcase of strength, teamwork, and have real lasting impacts on the ongoing GC battle.

Marianne Vos gets off mark in Vuelta Femenina 2024 with Stage 3 win

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In an eventful day of racing at La Vuelta Femenina 2024, Stage 3 concluded with a spectacular victory for Marianne Vos, marking the 252nd elite win of her illustrious career. The stage, which spanned from Lucena del Cid to Teruel, was a challenging ride with a significant amount of climbing, despite featuring only one categorised climb.

Early Breakaway and Solo Effort

The action began early in the stage when Mireia Benito of the AG Insurance-Soudal Team launched a daring solo attack. Benito quickly established a lead, which at its peak, was nearly five minutes over the peloton. This bold move set the tone for the day, as the peloton navigated the rolling hills and the singular climb of Alto Fuento de Rubielos. Despite several attempts by other riders to bridge the gap or form breakaways, none were successful, leaving Benito to press ahead alone.

Peloton Dynamics and Challenges

As the race progressed, the peloton saw its share of drama, the challenging terrain and aggressive racing caused several riders, to struggle and lose contact at various points. However, the majority were able to rejoin on the descent or shortly after the categorised climb of the day.

The middle sections of the race were relatively quiet as teams prepared for a potential sprint finish, regrouping and repositioning their sprinters. The tranquillity was briefly interrupted by Liege Bastogne Liege Femmes winner Grace Brown, who attempted to shake up the race with an attack after the day’s major climb but was quickly reeled in. That move went saw the Aussie take 2nd behind Benito at the intermediate sprint with Vas crossing that line 3rd, the Hungarian earning 2 bonus seconds that would prove vital later on.

Climactic Finish

The climax of the stage was set with 35 kilometres remaining; the peloton intensified their efforts, significantly cutting into Benito’s lead. As the finish line drew closer, the sprinters’ teams, including Visma | Lease a Bike, began setting up their trains to deliver their sprinters to the fore.

The finale was marred by crashes once again. One involving Natalie Grinczer among others, was particularly serious and saw the Brit have to leave the race. Similar to yesterday, there was a crash just inside the 3km barrier with 2.7km to go. It disrupted the peloton but did not impact the leading riders. Those riders who went down or were held up were given the same time as the leaders today.

(Photo Credit: Getty)

In the sprint that ensued, Marianne Vos demonstrated her power, taking a decisive victory over Charlotte Kool and Olivia Baril, who finished second and third respectively. Vos finished a few bike lengths ahead of her rivals, comfortably taking her first win of this year’s race.

2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 3 result

Results powered by FirstCycling.com

Main photo credit: Marianne Vos

Cannondale Synapse 3 Review: Solid mid-range endurance option

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Cannondale Synapse 3 Road Bike

The Cannondale Synapse 3 is the endurance bike offered by the major bike brand Cannondale. They’re renowned for their high-quality bicycles, and the Synapse line represents its foray into endurance road bikes that promise both performance and comfort. The Cannondale Synapse 3, a mid-range model in this line, offers a blend of features that appeal to both competitive cyclists and those seeking a reliable, enjoyable ride. This review explores the capabilities and features of the Cannondale Synapse 3 to determine whether it lives up to the reputation of its predecessors and stands out in the competitive road bike market.

Design and Build Quality of the Cannondale Synapse 3

The Cannondale Synapse 3 is built around a lightweight, yet sturdy aluminium frame, with a carbon fork that helps reduce the overall weight and dampen road vibrations. This combination not only enhances the bike’s responsiveness but also contributes to a smoother ride over varied terrains. The frame geometry is designed with an eye towards endurance, featuring a slightly more upright riding position that helps reduce rider fatigue over long distances.

Aesthetically, the Synapse 3 boasts a sleek, modern design with clean lines and an uncluttered look. It is available in several colour options, allowing riders to choose according to their personal style preferences. The paint quality and finish are excellent, providing a durable coating that withstands the rigours of frequent use.

Performance

The Cannondale Synapse 3 excels in delivering a balanced ride that combines speed, agility, and stability. It handles corners with precision and offers reassuring stability on descents, making it an excellent choice for riders who enjoy mixed-terrain rides. The bike’s frame and fork geometry are optimised to deliver a responsive ride without compromising on comfort, suitable for both racing enthusiasts and leisure cyclists.

It performs admirably across various surfaces, from smooth tarmac to light gravel paths, thanks to its versatile design and capable wheelset. The gearing range is broad enough to handle steep climbs and speedy flats efficiently, making it a robust all-rounder that can cater to most cycling demands.

How comfortable is the fit of the Cannondale Synapse 3?

One of the standout features of the Synapse 3 is its focus on ergonomics and comfort. The bike is equipped with Cannondale’s proprietary SAVE technology in the seat post and rear triangle, which significantly enhances comfort by absorbing shocks and vibrations from rough surfaces. This technology allows for longer rides with less fatigue, which is crucial for endurance cyclists.

The adjustable seat and handlebars enable riders to find their optimal riding position easily, further enhancing the ergonomic benefits of the bike. The padded saddle and grip tape on the handlebars provide additional comfort touchpoints, ensuring that the rider can maintain a comfortable stance throughout their journey.

Cannondale Synapse 3 Road Bike Cockpit

Components and Specifications

The Synapse 3 is outfitted with a Shimano 105 groupset, which is well-regarded for its reliability and performance. This includes a 22-speed drivetrain that offers smooth shifting and a wide range of gears to tackle various grades. The bike also features hydraulic disc brakes, which provide superior stopping power in all weather conditions, an essential feature for safety and performance.

The wheelset is robust, with rims that are compatible with both clincher and tubeless tyres, offering flexibility in tyre choice and the potential for lower tyre pressures for increased comfort and traction, especially if riding with latex or TPU tubes. The stock tyres are capable of handling multiple terrains, which complements the bike’s versatile nature.

Cannondale Synapse 3 Road Bike

Is the Cannondale Synapse 3 good value for money?

Priced at approximately £1,200, the Cannondale Synapse 3 offers excellent value for money. It delivers a high level of performance, comfort, and versatility that is comparable to more expensive models. For cyclists looking for a durable, adaptable, and enjoyable ride, the Synapse 3 is a compelling choice. Its combination of high-quality components, thoughtful design, and performance features make it an attractive option for a wide range of cyclists. Whether you’re entering competitive races or simply enjoying weekend rides, the Synapse 3 stands out as a smart investment in your cycling future.

In conclusion, the Cannondale Synapse 3 road bike is a well-rounded machine that delivers on multiple fronts, making it a worthy contender in its category.

Live: 2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 3

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Blanka-Vas-2024-Vuelta-Femenina-Stage-2-red-jersey-1

The 2024 Vuelta Femenina continued its penchant for late crashes yesterday with a spree in the run into the finish. Two riders were seriously hurt and won’t be taking any further part in the race – Anna Henderson (broken collarbone) and Clara Emond (fractured elbow).

Stage 3 has the potential to be absolutely brutal. The profile is slightly deceptive but there is climbing almost all day and over 2000m+ of overall ascent. Whilst the race marked Stage 3 as one for a mass sprint, it could even become a GC day if the climbs are raced hard. The purer sprinters will struggle and it will be down to the likes of Marianne Vos and race leader Blanka Vas as those with a fast finish who might make it through today.

Overall race preview can be found here with a stage preview here.

Live Coverage

The race starts at 12:35pm with the live coverage starting at 2:30pm

Live on Eurosport/Discovery across Europe
NOS in Netherlands
Peacock in USA
Flobikes in Canada
SBS in Australia

All times in BST

Live Race Updates

A quick preview look at the GP Eco-Struct 2024

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The GP Eco-Struct, a relatively new fixture in the professional cycling calendar, has rapidly evolved from a national-level race to a prominent UCI 1.1 event in 2020, since then the race has secured itself a place in the calendar whilst many in the women’s peloton are racing at the Vuelta Femenina. Situated in East Flanders, this Belgian race, with its straightforward parcours, has become a beacon for teams looking to showcase their skills on a flat course that should end up in a sprint.

Taking place in the towns of Wetteren and Schellebelle, the GP Eco-Struct quickly has built up a decent winner’s list, featuring the likes of world champion Amalie Dideriksen, Lorena Wiebes and Charlotte Kool. The race’s design – 6 laps followed by a sprint finish allows teams to establish control before delivering their leader to the line. There’s no major climb on the lap but the elevation reaches its highest each lap as the peloton enters Wetteren again.

Previous winner Amalie Dideriksen looks to be coming back to try and retain her title in 2024 but there won’t be a return for Charlotte Kool (racing the Vuelta Femenina) and Lorena Wiebes (team not entered). Instead, there will be Chiara Consonni racing for the first time. The Italian recently took her first win of the season at the GP della Liberazione PINK.

Lorena Wiebes GP EcoStruct 2021
Lorena Wiebes GP EcoStruct 2021

Which teams are racing at GP Eco-Struct 2024?

  • Uno-X Mobility
  • Human Powered Health
  • Fenix-Deceuninck
  • AG Insurance-NXTG U23
  • Chevalmeire
  • Lotto Dstny Ladies
  • Proximus-Cyclis CT
  • UAE Development Team
  • VolkerWessels
  • MAXX-Solar Rose
  • Doltcini O’Shea
  • GT Krush RebelLease
  • Hess Cycling
  • DAS-Hutchinson – Brother UK
  • Baloise-WB Ladies
  • Carbonbike Giordana by Gen Z
  • Cyclingteam Belco/Van Eyck
  • DD Group-Multum Accountants
  • De Ceuster-Bonache
  • KDM-Pack
  • Keukens Redant
  • Ladies CT Hoz-Beveren
  • MTD Women Cycling
  • WV Schijndel
  • Restore Cycling Team

What does the GP Eco-Struct route profile look like?

2024_GP_Eco-Struct_Profile

Where can I watch the GP Eco-Struct 2024?

The race doesn’t appear to be shown live again this year.

Who are the main riders to watch?

  • Amalie Dideriksen
  • Susanne Andersen
  • Anniina Ahtosalo
  • Maria Giulia Confalonieri
  • Daria Pikulik
  • Chiara Consonni
  • Federica Venturelli
  • Sofie van Rooijen
  • Marith Vanhove
  • Scarlett Souren
  • Julie de Wilde
  • Mirre Knaven
  • Silje Bader
  • Katrijn De Clercq
  • Lara Gillespie
  • Anne van Rooijen
  • Cecilia van Zuthem
  • Laura Lizette Sander
  • Julia Kopecky
  • Nora Tveit
  • Marjolein Van’t Geloof
  • Minke Bakker
  • Laura Vainionpää
  • Jesse Vandenbulcke

    Stage 3 of the 2024 Vuelta Femenina: A Surprising Hilly Challenge

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    Blanka-Vas-2024-Vuelta-Femenina-Stage-2-red-jersey-1

    As the peloton gears up for Stage 3 of the 2024 Vuelta Femenina, riders and teams must recalibrate their strategies to tackle a course that is anything but flat. Contrary to initial expectations, this stage presents a surprisingly hilly profile, stretching over a challenging route that could well be a decisive day for the general classification.

    Course Profile and Geographical Insights

    Stage 3 unfurls across the picturesque but deceptive terrain of the mountainous Aragon region of eastern Spain, weaving through a series of undulating hills that demand both endurance and tactical nous. The stage is characterised by multiple short, sharp climbs punctuated by rolling hills, which will test the riders’ climbing legs and their ability to recover quickly. The total elevation gain makes this stage far more challenging than a mere glance at the map might suggest.

    Geographically, the area is known for its rugged landscapes and expansive vistas, with roads that snake through both open and forested sections. Climatically, conditions are expected to be mild, with little chance of precipitation. However, the real boon for the riders is the wind—or the lack thereof. The wind direction and the nature of the roads should mean that wind will play a minimal role throughout the day, allowing the athletes to focus more on the climbs and less on battling crosswinds.

    2024_Vuelta_Espana_Femenina_Stage_2_Profile

    Analysing Alison Jackson’s Prospects

    Fresh off a triumph in Stage 2, Alison Jackson enters Stage 3 with high morale and a target on her back. Known for her powerful sprinting and robust all-around capabilities, Jackson’s performance in the previous stage highlighted her excellent form and tactical decisions. However, the hilly terrain of Stage 3 poses a different challenge. While not known as a strong climber, Jackson’s ability to handle rolling courses and her strategic positioning within the peloton will be critical. Her team will likely rally around her, setting a controlled pace on the climbs to keep her well-positioned and protected.

    Alison-Jackson-2024-Vuelta-Femenina-Finish

    Key Contenders: Vos, Vas, and Swinkels

    Marianne Vos, with her legendary status in the cycling world, is always a rider to watch. Her explosive power on short climbs and her unparalleled race instincts make her a formidable opponent on a stage like this. Vos’s experience could see her able to negotiate the climbs whilst remaining near the front of the peloton for the sprint. She has lost a key lieutenant though in Anna Henderson after her crash on Stage 2.

    Blanka Vas, another strong climber sprinter type and a young talent in the peloton, could find Stage 3 to her liking. Vas’s capability to sustain high power over short ascents could allow her to break away from the main group, especially in the latter parts of the stage where fatigue sets in. She has the leader’s red jersey to defend and the Hungarian will do her utmost to keep it on her shoulders for another day at least.

    Karlijn Swinkels, a superb all-rounder, might use this stage to make a significant impact. Although less explosive than Vos or Vas, Swinkels’s steady pacing and endurance make her well-suited to a stage with continuous undulations. Her team might adopt a strategy of conservative racing early on, saving energy for a powerful finish. She was 3rd on Stage 2 and will look to go a couple of places better.

    Team Tactics and Strategy

    With the stage’s profile, teams will need to be particularly vigilant about the positioning of their leaders. The unexpected hills provide perfect launch pads for attacks, so teams like Visma | Lease a Bike, Team SD Worx and Liv-AlUla-Jayco will look to control the pace from the front, preventing any significant breaks that could upset the general classification. Teams might also place their domestiques in early breaks to ensure representation at the front, which could later be advantageous for their team leaders if the race situation changes dynamically.

    In summary, Stage 3 of the 2024 Vuelta Femenina is set to be a thrilling contest, with its deceptive climbs shaping the race in unexpected ways. While sprinters with resistance have a natural advantage, the rolling nature and strategic depth of the stage mean that all-rounders like Jackson also have a shot at glory. With precise team tactics and individual brilliance, this stage could provide a memorable battle in the quest for the overall victory.

    Alison Jackson triumphs in sprint after crash-strewn Stage 2

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    Alison-Jackson-2024-Vuelta-Femenina-Finish

    In a gripping second stage of La Vuelta Femenina, spanning 118.3 kilometres from Bunyol to Moncófar, Alison Jackson of EF Education-Cannondale emerged victorious in a reduced sprint finish. The stage featured a significant challenge with the ascent of Puerto de L’Oronet, which became a pivotal point in the race.

    The day began with aggressive early racing, leading to a breakaway of six riders by kilometre 26. This group included Idoia Eraso of Laboral Kutxa-Fundación Euskadi, alongside riders from diverse teams like Human Powered Health, Bepink-Bongioanni, VolkerWessels, Lotto Dstny Ladies, and Winspace. Despite a valiant effort, their lead, which once neared three minutes, began to close as the peloton, driven by Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL and targeting the safe positioning of sprinter Charlotte Kool, pulled them back into contention.

    Allione Eraso Oro 2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 2
    Marine Allione, Idoia Eraso, Andrea Oro

    The intensity increased as the riders approached the Puerto de L’Oronet, with the breakaway’s advantage diminishing under the pressure. It was here that Idoia Eraso attempted a solo break, but her efforts were neutralised before the summit, around kilometre 76 of the stage. The rigorous pace set by the leading teams, especially Team Visma-Lease a Bike, played a crucial role in fragmenting the peloton, resulting in only 45 riders cresting the climb together.

    Charlotte Kool, who had been a strong contender, was distanced on the climb and ended up in a chasing group. Despite her team’s efforts to reconnect, Kool and her group could not close the gap and she was notably absent from the final sprint.

    As the race neared its conclusion, Anneke Dijkstra of VolkerWessels Women’s Pro Cycling Team launched an attack and briefly led through the intermediate sprint at Alfara de la Baronia but was caught with 22 kilometres remaining to the finish. The final kilometres saw multiple crashes that disrupted the sprint preparation, affecting several top contenders and reshaping the lead group dynamics.

    In the tumultuous final sprint in Moncófar, Alison Jackson skillfully navigated through the chaos to clinch the stage win. She triumphed over Blanka Vas of Team SD Worx-Protime, who collected enough bonus seconds at the intermediate sprint and the finish to don the red jersey as the new overall race leader.

    Rider Reactions

    Jackson described her triumph amidst the day’s adversities, saying, “I came in with a real fire to win this. My teammates took care of me right from the beginning to the finish. When the crashes were happening, I kept being safe, playing it smart. In the final, the group caught the four of us who made it through the crashes first. My teammate Kristen Faulkner went full gas at 500 metres. She is so strong, I knew that no one would be able to come around. I got to choose my sprint when I wanted, and it’s unbelievable to come away with the win.”

    The race saw a new leader as Blanka Vas of SD Worx-Protime claimed the red jersey after gaining bonus seconds at the intermediate sprint and finish, showcasing her tactical calls in a highly technical finale. Vas remarked on her performance, stating, “I had not the best legs today, yet I managed to grab some crucial bonus seconds. It was a very technical finale and that is to my advantage.”

    Karlijn Swinkels of UAE Team ADQ also made headlines, securing third place and taking the lead in the Queen of the Mountains classification.

    The final kilometres were fraught with tension and crashes, impacting several key riders and teams. It’s now confirmed that Anna Henderson suffered a broken collarbone in today’s crashes.

    Juliette Labous from Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL, who finished 15th, shared, “Today was a pretty fast day. When the breakaway went, we immediately started to control the gap with Abi especially and did quite a good job keeping it small. Everybody did their best on the climb, and Charlotte almost made it over the top with the front group. Unfortunately, she missed a few metres, and then we got held up by the crashes in the final and couldn’t sprint for the win. Fortunately, none of us crashed and we will look ahead towards our next chances already.”

    The stage’s dramatic conclusion did not deter the spirits of the competitors, with all teams now regrouping and looking forward to the challenges of the upcoming stages. The fine margins between triumph and disappointment highlighted the intensity and unpredictability of La Vuelta Femenina, promising more thrilling racing action in the days to come.

    2024 Vuelta Espana Femenina Stage 2 result

    Results powered by FirstCycling.com

    British Cycling Unveils Paris 2024 Olympic Track Bike

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    Hope Lotus Bike
    Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com - 20/07/2023 - British Cycling - National Cycling Centre, Manchester, England - Hope Lotus Paris Olympics Track Bike.

    In an exciting development, British Cycling has launched the latest iteration of their cutting-edge track bike, set to propel Great Britain’s cyclists to glory at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Crafted through a collaboration between British engineering prowess and the expertise of the Great Britain Cycling Team, this bike promises to uphold the nation’s distinguished record of success on the track.

    Building upon the triumph of the Tokyo track bike, the new model boasts significant advancements, thanks to partnerships with leaders in equipment technology such as Lotus Engineering, Renishaw, and Hope Technology. Standout features include a 3D-printed Renishaw titanium crank, a unique Lotus trailing-edged fork, aerodynamically optimised handlebars, and the Hope HBT Paris frame, all meticulously designed to harmonise with the rider for maximum performance.

    Stephen Park CBE, Performance Director of the Great Britain Cycling Team, expressed pride in British Cycling’s legacy of innovation, asserting their commitment to pushing the boundaries of track bike technology. Mark Stringer, Commercial Director at Lotus Engineering, highlighted the fruitful collaboration between Lotus and British Cycling, aiming to enhance performance and engineering excellence.

    Renishaw’s Lead Additive Manufacturing Application Engineer, Ben Collins, emphasised the role of additive manufacturing in refining the bike’s design, delivering lightweight yet robust components tailored to Olympic standards. Ian Weatherill, Director of Hope Technology, underscored the close partnership between Hope and British Cycling, rooted in Lancashire, and expressed optimism for positive outcomes in Paris.

    The development of the Hope-Lotus track bike owes much to the support of UK Sport and National Lottery funding, as well as the collaboration with the UK Sports Institute, reflecting a comprehensive approach to research and development encompassing aerodynamics and ergonomics. As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, anticipation mounts for the unveiling of this cutting-edge track bike on the world stage.