Volta a Mallorca 2024, road race, pro racing, road cycling, pro cyclist, pro cycling, UCI event, UCI race, women’s cycling, Women’s Elite race, Women’s Elite race

The Santos Tour Down Under is an annual professional road cycling stage race held in and around Adelaide, South Australia. It is known for being the first event on the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Tour calendar, typically taking place in January. The race is organized by Events South Australia and is considered one of the premier cycling events in the Southern Hemisphere.

Description:

Location:
The race is centered in Adelaide but encompasses various regions of South Australia, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the area. The routes often include urban areas, coastal roads, and challenging climbs in the Adelaide Hills.

Race Format:
The Santos Tour Down Under typically spans over a week, featuring multiple stages held on consecutive days. The race includes a mix of flat stages suitable for sprinters and more challenging stages that may include hilly or mountainous terrain. The final stage traditionally takes place in Adelaide, featuring a circuit race around the city.

Jerseys:
Like many professional cycling races, the Santos Tour Down Under awards jerseys to distinguish the leaders in different classifications. The leader of the general classification wears the ochre jersey, while other jerseys signify the best sprinter, best climber, and best young rider.

Cultural Events:
In addition to the competitive racing, the Santos Tour Down Under is known for its vibrant and festive atmosphere. The race is complemented by various cultural events, public festivities, and fan engagement activities, making it a celebration for both cycling enthusiasts and the general public.

History:

The Santos Tour Down Under had its inaugural edition in 1999, and it quickly gained recognition as a major event on the international cycling calendar. Over the years, the race has attracted some of the world’s top cyclists and teams, making it an important early-season competition.

One of the notable aspects of the race is its role in providing teams and riders with an opportunity to test their form and equipment in a competitive setting at the beginning of the cycling season. The warm climate of South Australia during the Australian summer adds to the appeal of the race for participants looking to start their season in favorable conditions.

Sponsorship:
Santos, an Australian energy company, has been a longstanding sponsor of the event, contributing to the race’s name and supporting its organization. Sponsorship from companies like Santos is crucial for the continued success and growth of the Santos Tour Down Under.