Santos Tour Down Under Women’s Race
The Santos Tour Down Under, Australia’s premier cycling race, draws top global cyclists. Fans and riders can experience world-class competition, exciting festivities, and diverse tourism opportunities at each stage.
Stage 1: Ally Wollaston Secures Victory
In a stellar performance at the 2024 UCI Women’s WorldTour season opener, New Zealand cyclist Ally Wollaston of AG Insurance – Soudal Team claimed her debut WorldTour major prize. The Ziptrak Women’s Stage 1 witnessed Wollaston’s triumphant victory at the Maryvale Road, Athelstone finish line, marking a perfect start for her team in the new year.
Wollaston’s Dominance in Santos Ochre, Sprint, and Ziptrak Jerseys
Wollaston’s exceptional efforts resulted in a hat trick of wins, securing the Santos Ochre Leader’s Jersey, the Ziptrak Sprint Jersey, and, of course, the stage win. The 23-year-old showcased patience and self-confidence, reflecting on her strategic training in the heat of New Zealand.
Ragusa’s Queen of the Mountain Journey
Despite Wollaston’s dominance, the race witnessed standout performances, notably from Katia Ragusa of Human Powered Health. Ragusa faced challenges during the Gorge Road descent but managed to secure the efex Queen of the Mountain Jersey, adding an exciting element to the competition.
Raynolds’ Solo Counterattack and Breakaway Drama
Matilda Raynolds injected drama into the race with a daring solo counterattack 58km from the finish line. While the breakaway group absorbed her within the final 10km, the move added suspense to the competition, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the race.
Gigante’s Skillful Maneuvers and a Tribute to Melissa Hoskins
As teams prepared for sprint finishes, Hyundai Stage 3 favorite Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal) skillfully avoided potential crashes. The event also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Australian cyclist Melissa Hoskins, with a minute of silence observed at the Hahndorf start line.
Stage 1 Video Highlights
Stage 2: Ludwig’s Historic Triumph
Punchy Finish in Adelaide Hills
In a historic race covering 104.2km from Glenelg to Stirling, Denmark’s Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig of FDJ-Suez claimed victory, marking the longest Santos Tour Down Under women’s stage. Ludwig’s dynamic finish in the picturesque Adelaide Hills shifted her into pole position for the overall Santos Tour Down Under title.
Plan Shifts and Celebration
Ludwig’s original plan to sprint for teammate Grace Brown took a turn, leading to a victorious celebration. The win positions her favorably for the upcoming Hyundai Stage 3, promising an exciting battle for the overall title.
Bertizzolo’s Sprint Prowess and Ragusa’s Mountain Domination
Sofia Bertizzolo (UAE Team ADQ) secured second place at Stirling, earning the Ziptrak Sprint Jersey. Meanwhile, Katia Ragusa (Human Powered Health) held onto the efex Queen of the Mountain Jersey, showcasing her prowess on the challenging terrains.
Ludwig Claims Santos Ochre, Bertizzolo in Pursuit
Ally Wollaston, the Friday stage winner, handed over the ochre jersey to Ludwig. Sofia Bertizzolo closely trails Ludwig, setting the stage for a compelling battle for the overall title. Australian road champion Ruby Roseman-Gannon (Liv AlUla Jayco) secured a podium finish.
Notable Performances: Gigante’s Attack and Team Bridgelane’s Spotlight
AG Insurance Soudal’s Sarah Gigante led an attack approximately 72km from the finish line. Team Bridgelane continued to shine, with solo efforts from Matilda Raynolds on the opening stage and Haylee Fuller’s standout performance at Stirling.
Peloton Dynamics: Lidl Trek’s Pressure and Watts’ Competitive Spirit
Lidl Trek applied pressure on the peloton, focusing on supporting three-time Santos Tour Down Under champion Amanda Spratt. ARA Australian Cycling Team’s Emily Watts displayed a strong attack, earning the Yamaha Most Competitive Rider’s jersey despite being caught by the peloton.
Stage 2 Video Highlights
Stage 3: Triumph on Willunga Hill
Sarah Gigante Secures WorldTour Title
In a captivating Santos Tour Down Under, Australian cyclist Sarah Gigante delivered a major WorldTour title to her new team, AG Insurance Soudal, during the Hyundai Stage 3 from Adelaide to Willunga Hill.
Overcoming Adversities: Gigante’s Resilience Shines
Despite setbacks, including myopericarditis and bike crashes, the 23-year-old athlete showcased remarkable determination and resilience. Gigante’s emphatic victory on Willunga Hill not only secured the Santos Tour Down Under General Classification but also marked a significant triumph for her and AG Insurance Soudal.
Race Dynamics: Tactical Moves and Intermediate Sprints
The race featured notable performances, with New Zealand’s Ally Wollaston and FDJ-Suez’s Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig making impactful moves. Liv AlUla Jayco’s Ruby Roseman-Gannon’s strategic intermediate sprint tactics added a layer of excitement to the competition.
Historic Moments: Adelaide to Willunga Hill Stage
The Hyundai Stage 3 presented historic moments as it departed for the first time from the Tour Village in Victoria Square, Adelaide, and concluded for the first time atop the challenging Willunga Hill. The climb tested the cyclists, with Ludwig, Amanda Spratt, and Gigante emerging as main contenders.
Team Success: AG Insurance Soudal’s WorldTour Campaign
Gigante’s triumph on Willunga Hill, along with earlier successes by her team, AG Insurance Soudal, highlighted a successful WorldTour campaign. The race witnessed strategic moves, intermediate sprints, and intense competition, making it a memorable event in the cycling world.
Stage 3 Video Highlights
Santos Tour Down Under Women’s Race Results
Photos courtesy Santos Tour Down Under
