The Antwerp Port Epic is a top women’s cycling race that has quickly gained fame since it started in 2023. This tough event, with its mix of cobblestone streets and dirt roads, tests the endurance and skill of all cyclists who take part. The race goes through the busy port areas and beautiful landscapes of Antwerp, offering a unique and tough course.
In its first edition, Marthe Truyen won, setting a high bar for future racers. Her win showed the competitive spirit of the race and the high level of talent it draws. Truyen’s victory was proof of her strength and smart tactics, both key for tackling the race’s hard terrain. The Antwerp Port Epic not only highlights the physical power of the cyclists but also the strategic thinking needed to succeed on rough terrain.
Race Profile and Tactical Aspects
As part of the UCI 1.1 calendar, the race has quickly become a must for top women cyclists. The competition includes a mix of road race specialists and cyclocross experts, each bringing their own skills. The mix of surfaces – from smooth roads to rough cobblestones and gravel paths – demands versatility and toughness, making it a real test of all-around cycling ability.
- Starting Point: Schengenplein
- Distance: Over 180 kilometres
- Terrain: Industrial zones, rural outskirts, cobblestones, gravel paths
- Weather: Unpredictable Belgian conditions
The race starts at the Schengenplein and covers over 180 kilometres, winding through the port’s industrial zones and the rural outskirts. The route’s complexity and the unpredictable Belgian weather add to the event’s epic nature, making it a thrilling spectacle for fans and a tough challenge for riders. The Antwerp Port Epic embodies the spirit of classic Belgian racing with a modern twist, ensuring it will continue to grow in prestige and popularity in the women’s cycling calendar.
Which teams are racing at Antwerp Port Epic 2024?
- Fenix-Deceuninck
- AG Insurance-Soudal Team
- Ceratizit-WNT Pro Cycling
- VolkerWessels Pro Cycling Team
- ARA | Skip Capital
- Alba Development Road Team
- Lifeplus Wahoo
- UAE Development Team
- MAXX-SOLAR ROSE Women Racing
- BePink-Bongioanni
- CANYON//SRAM Generation
- Lotto Dstny Ladies
- Chevalmeire
- DAS-Hutchinson-Brother UK
- Team Mendelspeck Ge-Man
- GT Krush RebelLease
- Doltcini O’Shea
- Liv AlUla Jayco Women’s Continental Team
- Proximus-Cyclis CT
- LKT-Team
- Hess Cycling Team
- Team BridgeLane
- Torelli
What does the Antwerp Port Epic route profile look like?
Where can I watch the Antwerp Port Epic 2024 race?
Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like the women’s race will be live, whereas the men’s race will be.
Who are the main riders to watch?
- Marthe Truyen
- Sanne Cant
- Julie De Wilde
- Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado
- Maaike Boogaard
- Ilse Pluimers
- Julia Kopecky
- Ally Wollaston
- Sandra Alonso
- Franziska Brauße
- Arianna Fidanza
- Kathrin Schweinberger
- Manon Bakker
- Sofie van Rooijen
- Lucinda Stewart
- Kate Richardson
- Lara Gillespie
- Julie Hendrickx
- Thalita de Jong
- Emma Jeffers
- Matilde Vitillo
- Marjolein van ‘t Geloof