Get ready for an exhilarating finale as we dive into the preview of Stage 8 of the Aura Tour, a thrilling race across the majestic Alps. This stage promises an intense battle for the General Classification (GC) title, with a mere 49 seconds separating the leaders.
The route is a challenging 120km with a vertical gain of 3,860m, starting with the picturesque yet demanding Col du Pré. This climb, a hidden gem in the Alps, will set the tone for the day with its gentle start and steep hairpin turns. Following this, riders will tackle the backroad version of the Col des Saisies, known as the Bisanne climb, which offers an irregular and scenic ride.
The real test, however, lies in the Aravis climb. This ascent is so grueling that it could be a race in itself, with a long and steep approach. The descent is equally captivating, offering an Alpine-style experience before easing into a valley section. This is where strategic moves can be made, as riders navigate the tactical terrain.
The final climb, a 11.2km monster at 9.2% gradient, is a true test of endurance. With slopes reaching 10-12%, it rivals the infamous Mortirolo, but it needs more exposure to earn its place among the legends.
The contenders are an exciting mix. Isaac del Toro, fresh from his victory yesterday, is a strong favorite, especially with the yellow jersey within reach. Luke Tuckwell, the current leader, will need to defend his position, while Matteo Jorgenson is also a threat. Juan Ayuso, known for his audacious riding, could be a dark horse, and Tobias Halland Johannessen is having a solid race.
The wildcard is Paul Seixas, who may or may not start today after a tough crash. If he does, he could be a real contender, as he showed incredible climbing prowess on Friday. The breakaway group also has a chance, especially if UAE makes life difficult for Tuckwell. Valentin Paret-Peintre, improving daily, has an advantage racing on a familiar climb.
The weather forecast is perfect for racing, with sunny skies and a temperature of 27°C. TV coverage will capture the action, with the final two hours live. Tune in around 3:00 pm to witness the race tackle the Col des Aravis.
In a fun twist, the Signal de Bisanne, the second climb today, has a unique story. Its name, 'Signal', usually associated with TV aerials, refers to one of the peaks. When I reconned this road in 2016, it was being resurfaced, a common occurrence in June. I had to navigate a narrow parapet, a risky move in cycling shoes, to get past. Imagine the surprise when a Tour contender and his team arrived, only to face the same challenge! Their detour was lengthy, and the leader's attempt to walk his bike resulted in a sticky situation, quite literally. Today, as the race passes, the imprints of their shoes might still be visible, a unique mark on the road's history.
