As the countdown begins for the third edition of the La Ruta del Sol Elite Women, cycling enthusiasts are eager to witness the exhilarating battle across the stunning landscapes of Andalucía. Scheduled from May 29th to June 1st 2024, this year’s event promises to be as exciting as last year’s edition. It will cover approximately 450 kilometres across four stages, showcasing the Andalucian region.
Race organisers, Deporinter, have meticulously planned the route, which will commence in Castellar de la Frontera, Cádiz, on May 29 and culminate in Pizarra on June 1. Riders will traverse diverse terrains, including the renowned Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos and the picturesque Sierra de las Nieves in Málaga.
Last year’s winner was Katrine Aalerud.
2024 Ruta del Sol stages
The race kicks off with a challenging 115-kilometre stage from Castellar de la Frontera, featuring spectacular climbs, including the ascent to Gaucín and a thrilling finish in Alcalá la Real. Reflecting on the significance of the race, Sergio García, a professional cyclist nurtured by the Fundación Contador, expressed his excitement, stating, “It’s an honour to witness the race starting in Castellar de la Frontera, a place close to my heart.”
The subsequent stage, starting from Arjona in Jaén, spans over 145 kilometres and promises an exciting finale in Otura, Granada. The route offers opportunities for breakaways, with a strategic climb up Castillo de Locubín before a thrilling sprint finish in Otura. Excited about the stage, Otura Mayor, Adolfo García Quesada, remarked, “The race brings a buzz of excitement to Otura, a community deeply passionate about cycling.”
Stage three showcases the scenic beauty of the Axarquía region in Málaga, with a challenging route from Torre del Mar to Vélez-Málaga. Despite its shorter distance of 77 kilometres, the stage features gruelling climbs, including the ascent to Mirador de la Axarquía, before culminating in an exhilarating finish in Vélez-Málaga. Reflecting on the significance of the event, local resident Olaf Ludwig commented, “It’s wonderful to see Vélez-Málaga hosting the race after so many years, bringing back memories of past cycling triumphs.”
The grand finale on June 1 promises an enthralling showdown as riders tackle a demanding 100-kilometre route from Alhaurín de la Torre to Pizarra. With challenging climbs up Caminito del Rey and Puerto Martínez, followed by a thrilling descent to Pizarra, the stage guarantees nail-biting action until the very end. Mayor of Pizarra, José Luis Navarro, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to welcome the La Ruta del Sol Elite Women once again, showcasing our town’s passion for cycling and providing spectators with an unforgettable sporting spectacle.”