Stine Dale: Welcoming the Challenge of the Santos Tour Down Under
Just days before the commencement of the Santos Tour Down Under in Australia, Stine Dale, a talented cyclist from Team Coop - Repsol, eagerly anticipates the start of the WorldTour season Down Under. For Dale and her teammates, this marks the beginning of a journey across the globe to test their mettle on the roads of Australia.
"I'm thrilled to leave behind the indoor training and venture out to test the new bikes we'll be riding this year," says an optimistic Stine Dale, radiating enthusiasm. Amidst the bustle of packing and completing a master's thesis, Dale reflects on her promising training regime this winter, focusing on volume and intensifying intensity in recent weeks.
Her anticipation surges as she speaks of the summer in Australia, where the seasoned cyclists will embark on a challenging 93-kilometer route for the 1st stage, commencing on January 12th just outside Adelaide.
"While not feeling overly nervous, I see cross-country racing as my primary challenge. However, I'm confident that my experiences from last year and my winter preparation will fortify me for the start of this season," Dale explains thoughtfully.
Recalling her extraordinary but demanding experience at the Tour de France Femmes last year, Dale acknowledges the steep learning curve presented by cross-country racing. Yet, she remains resolute in her pursuit of mastery in this discipline, aiming to compete at the highest echelons of professional cycling.
"Competing at the Tour de France Femmes was a remarkable experience, despite its challenges. It's where I aspire to assert myself. When I participate in other races, I draw from those experiences, which provides me with a better perspective and a more relaxed atmosphere," she remarks.
Focused on the Santos Tour Down Under, Dale sets her sights on the 3rd stage, targeting the steep 3 km ascent of Willunga Hill with an average gradient of 7%. She envisions positioning herself favorably before the ascent, aiming for a top 20 finish.
"Racing in Australia will undoubtedly create lifelong memories," concludes Dale, poised for the upcoming challenges.
Following her transition from triathlon to road cycling in 2023, Dale experienced a resurgence last summer, securing a contract with Team Coop - Repsol until 2025.
The team lineup for the Santos Tour Down Under includes:
- Stine Dale (NOR)
- Mari Hole Mohr (NOR)
- Stina Kagevi (SWE)
- Camilla Rånes Bye (NOR)
- India Grangier (FRA)
Stay tuned as the riders embark on this exciting journey at the Santos Tour Down Under, seeking triumphs and unforgettable moments on the roads of Australia.
Read Full story - TEAM COOP - REPSOL
Photo Credit - Kjetil Alsvik
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