2023-07-22 16:31:23
They have a smile from ear to ear this Saturday July 22, on the eve of the start of the second Tour de France women, which retains the same format as last year, eight stages and a big start in Clermont-Ferrand given the day of the arrival of its male counterpart.
Published on: 07/22/2023 – 16:31
3 mn
From our special correspondent in Clermont-Ferrand,
« I can’t wait, it’s going to be intense and it’s a great opportunity for me “, mumbles the young Camille Fahy (Saint-Michel Auber93), a little impressed by the microphones and the cameras all around her.
At just 20 years old, this young girl from the Parisian suburbs will take part in the most prestigious race on the world calendar. With a mixture of apprehension and excitement.
Demi Vollering during his victory over the Flèche Wallonne, April 19, 2023. AFP – GOYVAERTS
Anemiek Van Vleuten and Demi Vollering, duel au sommet ?
Above all, she will face the talented Anemiek Van Vleuten (Movistar), who won the first edition, or her runner-up and compatriot Demi Vollering (Team SD Worx), who crushed the start of the season by winning the Strade Bianche, Through Flanders, the Amstel Gold Race, the Flèche Wallonne or even Liège-Bastogne-Liège. “ Give me your track record, I’ll tell you who you are “, one would be tempted to say. ” I expect a tough course. I don’t know if it will be the hardest race of the season, but I know it will go fast every day. But I can’t wait to start says the Dutch road champion.
Pour Anemiek Van Vleuten, qui se dit « in shape “, a second Tour de France in his pocket would mean an exceptional end to his career. The reigning world champion decided to put her bike on the nail at the end of the season, at 40 years old. ” Yes, this is my last chance to win it and it puts pressure on my shoulders. But this race is in my heart she smiles. And to add: Demi Vollering is very strong, even though I beat her in the Tour of Spain. I know she’s a contender, she must have the pressure too. »
The Tourmalet, a myth that should give wings
From July 23 to 30, there will be 154 riders divided into 22 teams to extend this summer of French cycling over a total course of 960 kilometers. From Clermont-Ferrand, a university town in central France, to the Pyrenees, the women’s peloton should once again be applauded.
« From now on, women’s cycling is becoming more professional, the teams are being structured and there are even sponsors dedicated to women’s teams.rejoices Franck Perque, director of the event. Between Clermont-Ferrand and Pau, the terrain will be very hilly, and there will be some very good meetings. Like individual time trial (the last stage on Sunday July 30), which did not exist last year. Above all, women will also cross a mythical pass of the men’s Tour de France, the Tourmalet, classified out of category, which culminates at more than 2000 meters (Saturday July 29). “It will be the only arrival at the top of this Tour.
« We will enjoy every moment, there will be great things to do on this Tour. It’s just happiness. Who doesn’t dream of being there? concludes the French Typhaine Laurance from Lifeplus Wahoo.
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