Akaroa - Ashburnton is a challenging yet rewarding experience for every cyclist out there. This 153 km long race is a mix of gravel and paved roads that will test the riders' technical abilities and their sprinting capabilities.
Starting from Akaroa, the first challenge of the day begins only 8 km away from the start line, with the ascent of Summit Road. This climb is a perfect spot for a breakaway group to form and g...
Read moreAkaroa - Ashburnton is a challenging yet rewarding experience for every cyclist out there. This 153 km long race is a mix of gravel and paved roads that will test the riders' technical abilities and their sprinting capabilities.
Starting from Akaroa, the first challenge of the day begins only 8 km away from the start line, with the ascent of Summit Road. This climb is a perfect spot for a breakaway group to form and gain an advantage over the peloton. The climb itself is not too long, but it's a steep and winding road that will separate the stronger riders from the weaker ones. At the top of the climb, around the 16 km mark, the riders will be rewarded with a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. The road then starts to go down towards Cooptown, a small town located in the heart of the Banks Peninsula. The road then continues towards Little River, another picturesque town that will enchant the riders with its beauty.
The route then turns towards Dunsandel and Rakaia, two small towns that will provide the riders with a taste of rural New Zealand. The roads leading to these towns are secondary roads that consist mostly of gravel. Thus, the riders will need to have good abilities to handle the gravel roads and their technicality. The terrain on this part of the course is mostly flat, with a few minor ups and downs. After passing through Rakaia, the riders will begin their final push towards the finish line in Ashburton. This part of the course is mostly flat and will favor the sprinters in the peloton. The sprint will take place in the center of Ashburton, which is a small town with a population of around 20,000.
Along the route, the riders will be dazzled by the stunning landscape of the Banks Peninsula, with its breathtaking coastal views and lush green hillsides. The towns and cities along the way will offer the riders a glimpse of rural New Zealand, with their charming architecture and friendly locals. To win this race, a rider would need to have excellent technical skills to handle the gravel roads. A sprinter with good endurance might also have a chance, as the final sprint in Ashburton favors the fast and resilient riders.
