Dutch superstar Marianne Vos will take part in the inaugural edition of The Women’s Tour in May this year, organisers SweetSpot have confirmed.
Awarded the prestigious 2.1 status by the UCI, it was hoped the five-day international stage race – the first of its kind in Britain – would attract a high calibre of rider and so it has proved, with the Dutchwoman confirming her appearance.
The race, which rolls out in Oundle, Northamtonshire on Wednesday May 7, will therefore see the world and Olympic champion rekindle her rivalry with Britain’s Lizzie Armitstead after pipping her to gold in the women’s road race at the London Games in 2012.
Armitstead has already told RCUK of her excitement ahead of the Tour, and Vos – having experienced the passionate British crowds at the Games – is looking forward to returning to the country.
“It’s great that we get a big new stage race on our calendar with The Women’s Tour,” she said.
“The times that I’ve raced in Great Britain – with of course the London Olympic Games fresh in my mind – I have been amazed by the huge crowds and the enthusiastic people.
“I’m sure it will be a fantastic event and I’m looking forward to competing here with the best riders from all over the World.”
The Women’s Tour starts with the stage from Oundle to Northampton with Leicestershire, Bedfordshire, Essex and Hertfordshire also welcoming riders prior to the grand finale in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.
