Tour Watopia 2024

Stage 1: Coast Cruising

Date: 2nd January
Distance: 41 km / 25.5 mi
Type: Individual Time Trial (ITT)
Elevation Gain: 180 m / 590 ft

Overview:
The event kicks off with "Coast Cruising," a 41 km (25.5 mi) individual time trial along Watopia's scenic coastal route. This stage kicks off the competition and will set the coming pecking order for the 🟨GC battle.

Key Highlights:

• Terrain: Mostly flat with minor elevation changes, ideal for time trial specialists and those who can sustain high power output over a longer distance.

• Scenery: Riders will be treated to picturesque coastal landscapes, enhancing the racing experience (if you can see straight)

• Racing Dynamics: As an ITT, this stage focuses on individual performance, testing each rider's ability to pace themselves effectively.

Tips for Riders:

• Pacing Strategy: Proper pacing is crucial. Riders should aim to maintain a consistent effort throughout, balancing their energy expenditure. Don't forget to fuel often and early.

• Power Output: Focus on sustaining a high power output, especially on flatter sections and mixed surfaces.

• Equipment Selection: Choosing the right wheel setup for your level can make a significant difference in performance. Zwifterbikes has a tool to help you with this.

Expectation:
This stage is expected to set the initial standings with riders showcasing their time-trialing skills. It's a test of endurance and power, where even small gaps can be crucial for the general classification. Use the stage results to identify who to watch out for on Stage 7.

SPRINTs:

• The stage does not feature designated sprint segments due to its ITT nature.

CLIMBS:

• The course includes minor climbs with an overall elevation gain of 180 meters (590 feet), adding a slight challenge to the otherwise flat route.

FOR THE SICK!OS

The first rule of being a cycling sicko is learning to stalk Strava segments. You've got to know what you're capable of to prevent yourself from blowing up and watching the pack ride away. Click on the button below and check out your past results. You'll need to be Premium Member on Strava for leaderboards

Now for the truly ill amongst us there is then head over to Veloviewer which is going to present things to us in a very different way. The information is more detailed, and gives a unique analysis of the segment. It also has a better visual representation of the ride ahead. This tool is free to use

Now this is where most of you will stop, you'll be satisfied now with all of that. Not here at 😷⚡we're a bit kookoo for coco puffs.

Lastly we did course recon on every meter/foot of each stage. From this we built a 😷⚡🍞(breadcrumb) cheat sheet. With this there are very little surprises heading your way you'll be about as prepared as it gets.

Bonus section 🥤🍜 (on/off bike nutrition). Here we will showcase some of what Chef Sick! has helping us race and recover. These are for the Social feeds