Another thrilling race in Italy: Giro del Veneto Juniores. 4 days, 349 km, 33 teams, and 200 competitors.
The first day features a team time trial. The distance is 6.1 km on a technical urban course, with temperatures hitting 35 degrees in the shade—all set in the beautiful surroundings of Padova.
Day 2:
Road Race – 98 km from Cartigliano to Verona
Elevation Gain: 650 m
Start: In front of the Town Hall in Cartigliano at 11:00 AM.
It was 37 °C in the shade. The distance wouldn’t have been demanding; neither the 98 kilometers nor the elevation gain of 650 meters is significant on this route. The heat isn’t an obstacle if there’s enough hydration available. However, for some reason, we only received water bottles at one location, which left everyone struggling. Some competitors were even forced to abandon the race. You can’t ride 98 kilometers at an average speed of 45 km/h in 37-degree heat with just 1.5 liters of water.
We all finished in a poor position. I had the added misfortune of missing the subsequently calculated time limit by 49 seconds, which meant I lost the chance to start on both the third and fourth days. ‘Over Time Limit’ appeared next to my name.
I was very disappointed because I arrived in good shape, my legs felt strong, and I was really looking forward to the mountain stage on day three—but that was no longer an option.
Another setback to process. I don’t want to blame anyone for it, but the hydration situation wasn’t in our hands.
Day 3:
Road Race from Belluno to Feltre
Distance: 117 km
Elevation Gain: 1650 m
Start: 12:00 PM
Day 4:
Road Race from Padova to Teolo
Distance: 127.67 km
Elevation Gain: 450 m
Start: 11:00 AM
