Santos Women’s Tour moves a step closer to WorldTour status

THE cream of international women cyclists are expected to be Adelaide-bound after the Santos Women’s Tour was upgraded a step closer to World Tour status.

Amanda Spratt in the blue jersey during this year’s Santos Women’s Tour. Picture: Sarah Reed.

THE cream of international women cyclists are expected to be Adelaide-bound after the Santos Women’s Tour was upgraded a step closer to World Tour status.

At its road management committee meeting in Norway on the weekend, the sport’s governing body, the UCI, lifted the women’s tour to a 2.1 event, meaning more ranking points is likely to attract a stronger peloton for the January 11-14 event. UCI race classifications start at 2.2 and then go to 2.1, 2. HC and ultimately WorldTour.

The decision to upgrade next year’s race coincides with major celebrations being planned for the men’s Tour Down Under which is marking its 20th edition.

Sports Minister Leon Bignell said there had been huge interest in the women’s tour which started in 2015 as part of Cycling Australia’s national road series and had continued to grow.

“The news from the UCI is most welcome and we know the riders will be even more inspired to put on a display of fierce competition for the fans,” Mr Bignell said.

“The new classification means more points on offer to the riders and teams, which will be well received.

“We are committed to growing the women’s race year on year both on and off the bike.”

This year’s race included 102 riders from 19 different countries and was won by Olympian pocket-rocket Amanda Spratt who rides for Orica-Scott.

Next year’s field will consist of 17 teams to race over four stages with routes to be announced later this year.

Race director Kimberley Conte said the UCI’s decision to upgrade the race was “fantastic” news.

“While winning is the goal, points are important to teams and are utilised for international rankings and status which is vital for ongoing exposure and sponsorship opportunities,” Ms Conte said.

“The change in status provides the race with a strong field of UCI international teams yet still allows the race to provide a solid pathway for our top Australian domestic teams.

“The mixture of high level international and domestic teams provides our younger developing riders the chance to test their skills alongside the best riders in the world.”

Meanwhile, in other TDU news, four-time winner Simon Gerrans has told The Advertiser he hopes to be on the start line in January with his new team BMC.

Gerrans has signed with BMC after six years with Orica-Scott and may form a potent squad for the TDU along with Richie Porte, Rohan Dennis and Miles Scotson.

Gerrans first won the TDU in 2006, and followed it up with victories in 2012, 2014 and 2016.

Originally published as Santos Women’s Tour moves a step closer to WorldTour status