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La Ruta del Sol Elite Women: Elite Riders Gear Up for Andalucía Challenge

By
Mathew Mitchell
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Ottestad-Aalerud-Dronova-Vuelta-Andalucia-2023-Podium

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.”

2024 Giro d’Italia – Who will Triumph in Stage 1?

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0

With the start list for the 107th Giro d’Italia announced, cycling enthusiasts around the globe are poised for an exciting three weeks of racing, commencing with a challenging 140km route from Venaria Reale to Torino. This year’s Giro features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers across the peloton, with Tadej Pogacar leading the roster of contenders aiming for the prestigious Maglia Rosa.

General Classification Contenders

The battle for the overall lead will undoubtedly revolve around Tadej Pogacar, the Slovenian prodigy making his debut at the Giro. With a stellar start to the season, boasting seven wins in ten races, Pogacar is the marked favourite. Geraint Thomas, who narrowly missed retaining the Maglia Rosa until the final stages last year, returns with aspirations of redemption and will be supported by Thymen Arensman, a strong contender for the Maglia Bianca as best young rider.

Other notable riders in the GC hunt include:

  • Romain Bardet: Recently second at Liège-Bastogne-Liège, indicating excellent form.
  • Ben O’Connor: Consistent performance with a recent runner-up finish at the UAE Tour.
  • Daniel Felipe Martinez and Juan Pedro Lopez: Both showing robust early season victories, adding depth to the competition.

Stage 1 Analysis: Venaria Reale-Torino

The opening stage presents a unique challenge with a hilly profile that may not favour the pure sprinters. After a flat opening 45 km, the race hits two significant climbs—Berzano di San Pietro and Superga—before a technical descent and a gruelling finish over the steep climb to San Vito. The stage concludes with a flat 500m dash, crucial for those looking to grab an early lead.

Top Contenders for Stage 1

  • Julian Alaphilippe: Known for his prowess on short, sharp climbs, Alaphilippe’s explosive power makes him a favourite for the punchy finish at San Vito. His ability to handle technical descents will also play to his advantage.
  • Filippo Ganna: While primarily a time trial specialist, Ganna’s power could see him break away on the final climb or earlier in the stage. A strong showing in the initial time trial could also put him in a position to wear one of the leader’s jerseys early in the race.
  • Florian Lipowitz: A strong third at the Tour de Romandie highlights his capability on hilly courses, making him a potential dark horse for the stage.

Potential Sprint Specialists

Given the challenging profile at the end, traditional sprinters may find it tough, but riders like Fernando Gaviria and Caleb Ewan, sometimes known for their ability to survive hilly routes, could surprise if they manage to hang on through the final climb. Jonathan Milan is another who could also stand a chance as a rider looking to win the Maglia Ciclamino again.

2024 Giro d’Italia Jerseys and Honours

  • Maglia Rosa (General Classification Leader): Sponsored by Enel.
  • Maglia Ciclamino (Points Classification Leader): Partnered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Trade Agency.
  • Maglia Azzurra (King of the Mountains Leader): Sponsored by Banca Mediolanum.
  • Maglia Bianca (Best Young Rider): Sponsored by Intimissimi Uomo.

Outlook and Expectations

As the peloton readies at the start line in Venaria Reale, the anticipation for what promises to be a fiercely contested opening stage is palpable. The tactical nuance of managing the early flat with the subsequent climbs will be crucial. Riders aiming for the stage win will need not only to contend with the physical demands of the Superga and the final climb to San Vito but also with the psychological battle of an opening day at one of cycling’s grandest tours. With the mix of young talent and seasoned professionals, Stage 1 will set the tone for what is likely to be an unforgettable Giro d’Italia.

Tour of Scandinavia Cancelled Due to Financial Shortfall

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0
Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig Tour of Scandinava 2022 Stage 5 Kenneth Asbjørnsen-Eventfotografene

The Tour of Scandinavia, a staple in the Women’s WorldTour cycling calendar, will not take place in 2024 due to unresolved financial issues. Originally scheduled for August 29 to September 1, the organisers have struggled to secure the necessary funds to proceed, citing a significant shortfall.

A shortfall of approximately 3 million Norwegian kroner (around €250,000) has led to the cancellation, with organisers expressing regret over the decision. “Despite intensive efforts in recent weeks to find a solution and secure enough financial resources to conduct the race, we have not been able to secure the foundational support we had hoped for,” stated the organisers in a press release.

The event, which has been a highlight for cycling enthusiasts and has seen top cyclists like Annemiek Van Vleuten grace its routes, is now looking to 2025 for a comeback. Organisers have already applied for a WorldTour licence for next year and are actively working on securing robust, long-term financial strategies through strategic partnerships.

Organisational spokespeople shared their forward-looking plans: “We are actively designing next year’s route, with just a few pieces left to place. We’re also laying down a robust, long-term financial model through strategic partnerships.”

Despite this year’s setback, the organisers remain optimistic about restructuring and strengthening the event to ensure its sustainability at the WorldTour level for 2025 and beyond.

Last year’s race was won by Annemiek van Vleuten.

Main photo credit: Kenneth Asbjornsen Eventfotografene

Gaia Realini Withdraws from Vuelta Femenina Following Stage 5 Crash

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0
Gaia Realini
Gaia Realini (Getty)

Gaia Realini, a key figure in the Lidl-Trek team, has been forced to withdraw from the Vuelta Femenina following a high-speed crash during Stage 5 of the race. The Italian climber, who had worn the red leader’s jersey earlier in the tour, came off her bike on the descent of the Alto del Monasterio de San Juan de la Peña with just 28km left to the finish.

Realini, who showed promise with a stage win and a third overall in the 2023 edition, faced a difficult race this year, having already lost time in the wind on Stage 4. The crash compounded her challenges, initially seeing her try to continue the race. Assisted by teammate Brodie Chapman, Realini struggled to remount and was visibly in pain, leaning against a roadside cliff before eventually getting back on a spare bike provided by her team car.

Despite the quick reaction, no concussion check appeared to be performed on Realini at the crash site, a detail captured in the race’s TV coverage. She managed to finish the stage, albeit over seven minutes behind the stage winner, Demi Vollering of SD Worx-Protime, who claimed the red jersey. Following a post-stage evaluation by her team’s medical staff, it was confirmed that Realini had suffered a minor concussion along with pain in her chest and right elbow.

The decision for Realini not to start Stage 6 was announced by Lidl-Trek the following morning. The team prioritised her recovery, stating she would undergo further hospital evaluations to ensure her well-being. This turn of events marks a significant setback for Realini, who had high hopes for this year’s Vuelta Femenina, not only to compete but to mentor younger teammates in the rigours of stage racing.

Main photo credit: Getty

Tour of Britain Women Unveils Opening Stages in Wales

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0

In anticipation of the Grand Départ in Welshpool just 34 days away, the routes for the initial two stages of the 2024 Tour of Britain Women have been revealed today, promising thrilling racing action through Wales’ picturesque landscapes.

Stage 1 – Welshpool to Llandudno

Stage 1, spanning 142.5km with 2,276m of ascent, will commence from Welshpool’s Broad Street, traversing challenging terrains and iconic climbs before culminating in Llandudno. It looks like the finish will be flat on the promenade next to the sea in Llandudno rather than visiting the steep climb of the Great Orme.

Notable highlights include the formidable Llangynog/Berwyn Pass climb and a scenic route through market towns and picturesque villages, promising a spectacle for spectators lining the streets.

Expressing excitement, Councillor David Selby of Powys County Council remarked, “It’s exciting that Powys has been chosen to host the Grand Départ from Welshpool for this year’s Tour of Britain Women,” recognising the event’s significance in showcasing Wales’ natural beauty.

Stage 1 - Welshpool to Llandudno Tour of Britain Women 2024

Stage 2 – Wrexham to Wrexham

Stage 2, covering 140.2km with 1,570m of ascent, will see riders embarking from and returning to Chester Street in Wrexham’s city centre. The route promises breathtaking scenery as it winds through Denbighshire, West Cheshire, and Chester, featuring iconic climbs like Horseshoe Pass and scenic stretches along the Llangollen Canal.

Stage 2 - Wrexham to Wrexham Tour of Britain Women 2024

Councillor Nigel Williams of Wrexham expressed delight, stating, “I’m once again really pleased to see a nationally important event such as the Tour of Britain Women being hosted in Wrexham,” inviting locals to witness elite cyclists in action.

Tour of Britain Race Director, Rod Ellingworth, lauded the collaborative efforts behind crafting challenging and scenic routes, affirming the event’s commitment to showcasing Britain’s finest roads and scenery.

With just weeks remaining until the Grand Départ, anticipation builds for the Tour of Britain Women, promising exhilarating racing action and memorable moments for participants and spectators alike.

Live: 2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 6

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0
02/05/2024 - La Vuelta Femenina 24 by Carrefour.es - Etapa 5 - Huesca / Jaca (113,9 km) -

Stage 6 of the Vuelta Femenina sees the next stern test of this year’s race. The finishing climb of Laguna Negra is a beast with its steepest slopes coming right at the finish line. That will make it a tough one to pace and we will no doubt see riders blow up in the final few metres having slightly misjudged their efforts. After winning yesterday’s stage, Demi Vollering now holds the leader’s red jersey and will look to cement that today.

Her closest rivals are Elisa Longo Borghini and Riejanne Markus, who are the only 2 riders within 1 minute of Demi in the general classification. There should be another shake-up in the overall as the likes of Marianne Vos should leave the top-10 and see the pack reshuffled.

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

Live Coverage

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

Live on Eurosport/Discovery across Europe
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All times in BST

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La Laguna Negra Presents Serious Test on 2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 6

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0
02/05/2024 - La Vuelta Femenina 24 by Carrefour.es - Etapa 5 - Huesca / Jaca (113,9 km) - VOLLERING Demi (TEAM SD WORX - PROTIME)

Stage six of the 2024 Vuelta Femenina is poised to be a decisive moment in the competition, featuring a challenging finish that could dramatically alter the general classification (GC). Starting in Tarazona, the riders will immediately tackle an early uncategorised climb spanning 30 km, setting an elevated tone for the day. The route then transitions to relatively flat terrain, giving a breakaway group the chance to build a substantial lead before the climactic ascent to La Laguna Negra.

2024_Vuelta_Espana_Femenina_Stage_6_Profile

Key Climb: La Laguna Negra

The highlight of this stage is the Category One climb to La Laguna Negra. Extending over 6.5 km with an average gradient of 6.8%, this ascent concludes at an elevation of 1,730 metres. The climb intensifies progressively, peaking at a daunting 14% gradient in places. The final 500 metres are particularly gruelling, with a gradient of 11.2%. Those who have focused on altitude training may find themselves at a slight advantage as they approach the summit.

GC Contenders and Possible Breakaway

Demi Vollering enters this stage in the red jersey, with her position at the top of the GC appearing robust for now. Despite the forthcoming challenges, Vollering’s proven climbing abilities suggest she may not need to exert excessive pressure on her competitors. However, Elisa Longo Borghini, who is currently second in the GC standings, could take this chance to challenge Vollering, particularly with other contenders like Kristen Faulkner and Juliette Labous in close pursuit.

Impact of the Stage 5 Crash for Realini

Gaia Realini, who would have been a favourite for this stage, now sees her chances compromised following a crash on Stage 5. Her participation and performance remain crucial yet uncertain, adding an unpredictable element to the race dynamics.

Watch for the Breakaway

This stage is ideal for a breakaway victory. With the GC teams likely concentrating on the final climb, other teams might look to exploit early opportunities. Riders such as Magdeleine Vallieres Mill, Amber Kraak, and Eva van Agt, who are not immediate threats in the GC but are capable climbers, could find this stage well-suited to their strengths.

As the race makes its way towards La Laguna Negra, the thinner air and steep gradients will test every rider’s mettle. With the GC still up for grabs and several climbers eager to assert their dominance, Stage 6 promises to be a thrilling and potentially transformative day in the Vuelta Femenina.

Romy Kasper extends contract with Human Powered Health until 2025

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0
Romy Kasper
Romy Kasper

Veteran cyclist Romy Kasper has renewed her commitment to Human Powered Health, signing on to continue her role through 2025. This extension marks a significant milestone in Kasper’s career, anchoring her in the Women’s WorldTour peloton into her seventeenth year of professional cycling.

Kasper, renowned for her experience and leadership, expressed her enthusiasm about the extension. “It feels good to stay for another year, especially as I am still not done with Paris-Roubaix,” she stated. Her aspirations at the storied Paris-Roubaix highlight her unfinished business and drive in the sport.

As a road captain, Kasper’s influence extends beyond just her race performance. She plays a pivotal role in mentoring younger riders, and guiding them through the complexities of professional races. “To share my experience with the younger girls and guide them in the races is important,” she remarked, underscoring her role as a mentor within the team.

Kasper’s contribution to the team is not just strategic but also tactical, particularly evident in her work with Daria Pikulik. She has been instrumental in Pikulik’s recent successes, including podium finishes at the UAE Tour Women and the Classic Brugge-De Panne. “I feel great in this team,” Kasper commented, reflecting on the team dynamics. “We are growing together with a lot of new riders. Step by step we connect and more podiums and victories are coming.”

Her commitment to the team’s ethos and her pivotal role in fostering a collaborative and ambitious environment are clear. Kasper added, “I like that mentality of never stopping working on ourselves and chasing to make us better. This is a big family, all riders and staff members and I like to work in this environment.”

Fans can look forward to seeing more of Kasper’s strategic prowess as she continues her role in upcoming races, including the Vuelta a España Femenina. Her ongoing presence in the peloton is set to inspire and lead Human Powered Health as they strive for more success on the international stage.

Stage 5 Showdown at La Vuelta Femenina Sees Demi Vollering Take First Win of 2024

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0
02/05/2024 - La Vuelta Femenina 24 by Carrefour.es - Etapa 5 - Huesca / Jaca (113,9 km) - VOLLERING Demi (TEAM SD WORX - PROTIME)

The Vuelta Femenina witnessed a dramatic fifth stage today, where Demi Vollering of Team SD Worx-Protime clinched a commanding win on the challenging climb to Alto del Fuerte Rapitán in Jaca. Covering 113.9 kilometres starting from Huesca, the stage presented the first significant summit finish of the tour, setting the scene for a fierce battle among the general classification contenders.

Race Dynamics

The peloton, still feeling the effects of the previous day’s tough conditions, embarked from Huesca under windy skies that hampered any early breakaway attempts, including one from Antri Christoforou. It wasn’t until Lourdes Oyarbide of Laboral Kutxa-Fundación Euskadi made a move that the race saw its first significant solo effort, though she was reeled back by the peloton midway through the first categorised climb, Alto del Monasterio de San Juan de la Peña.

Antri Christoforou on an early solo break
(Photo Credit: CXCLING)

As the race approached the final climb, strategic moves were evident with Team FDJ-SUEZ setting a brisk pace that significantly thinned the leading group. Notable attempts by Antonia Niedermaier and Grace Brown added to the drama but ultimately, the peloton regrouped before the ascent to Alto del Fuerte Rapitán.

Vollering’s Dominant Finish

The concluding climb was where Vollering made her mark. The steep ramps of Alto del Fuerte Rapitán became the proving ground as Vollering distanced herself from her closest rivals with a blistering pace in the last kilometre. Her surge left Elisa Longo Borghini (Lidl-Trek) and Yara Kastelijn trailing, securing Vollering the stage win by a margin of 28 seconds.

This victory not only marked Vollering’s first win of the season but also propelled her into the overall race lead, now 31 seconds ahead of Longo Borghini, and firmly establishing her as a frontrunner for the overall title.

Demi Vollering crosses the finish line
(Photo Credit: Sprint Cycling Agency)

Reactions from the Finish Line

After her emphatic win, Vollering shared her excitement and strategic insights: “On the final climb, I felt good, so I set the pace myself. I noticed that Elisa was struggling, so I accelerated even more in the hope of gaining time on her. That plan worked well. Winning La Vuelta Femenina is my big goal, and I am happy to already have this beautiful red leader’s jersey around my shoulders,” Vollering commented.

Elisa Longo Borghini, now second in the general classification, reflected on her performance, “Demi was just too strong today. I tried to keep her wheel but couldn’t match her pace in the final stretch. There’s still a lot of racing left, and I’ll look to reclaim the time lost today.”

Looking Ahead

The peloton does not get a respite, as they face another challenging mountain stage next. The sixth stage will take the riders from Tarazona to La Laguna Negra de Vinuesa, spanning 132.1 kilometres with yet another uphill finish, promising more shakeups in the general classification.

2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 5 result

Results powered by FirstCycling.com

Main Photo Credit: Sprint Cycling Agency

Live: 2024 Vuelta Femenina Stage 5

By
Mathew Mitchell
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0
01/05/2024 - La Vuelta Femenina 24 by Carrefour.es - Etapa 4 - Molina de Aragón / Zaragoza (142,3 km) -

The first serious mountains test in the 2024 Vuelta Femenina comes on Stage 5. A summit finish will see the GC shaken up once more with the likes of red jersey wearer Marianne Vos set to fall down the standings. The battle for that jersey looks set to be between Demi Vollering and Elisa Longo Borghini now for the rest of this year’s race, with pre-race favourite Gaia Realini losing 2 minutes yesterday. The diminutive climber may be able to claw some of that back on Stage 5 but still represents too much of a GC threat to be allowed to go clear.

Other riders in the GC hunt who didn’t lose time yesterday include Riejanne Markus, Kasia Niewiadoma, Juliette Labous and Niamh Fisher-Black. We’ll see how realistic their GC-winning ambitions are after the stage today, coming just after a full day of work in a lead break the overnight recovery will be super important coming into this one.

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

Live Coverage

The race starts at 1:05pm 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

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