By Nat Bromhead for Ride On Magazine
The 25th Santos Tour Down Under (TDU) kicks off on Friday January 17 as the first WorldTour event of the year, and Race Director Stuy O’Grady is excited to oversee his third year at the helm.
“We are thrilled to get the 25th TDU underway,” said O’Grady, co-chairing the pre-event press conference with Annette Edmondson in Adelaide today. “The event continues to grow year on year, and we couldn’t be happier with the progress.”
The Women’s TDU boasts an impressive lineup this year, featuring 10 women’s WorldTour teams—the strongest field in the event’s history. “This is probably the best lineup of riders we’ve ever had, particularly on the women’s side,” O’Grady added. “The two climbs of Willunga will be a huge highlight for the women’s race.”
Netty Edmondson, one of the three Race Directors, emphasised the importance of listening to teams’ needs. “We’ve traveled globally, gathering feedback. Teams want more racing opportunities, and having the women compete in the heart of Adelaide on the final day is an exciting step forward,” she said.
Responding to team feedback, the organisers have introduced the first-ever UCI Pro Series one-day race for women, held on the same course and distance as the Men’s Schwalbe Classic.
“This addition gives the women another opportunity to win valuable UCI points,” said Edmondson. “We aim to create sustainable growth for the women’s event and hope to add another stage in the future.”
Chloé Dygert: Ready for a Comeback
Star rider Chloé Dygert expressed her excitement about returning to the TDU. “I’ve been able to train early in the year and adjust to the heat,” said the Olympian. “It’s great to be back. The event has grown significantly since I first raced here,” she added.
Reflecting on a challenging previous season, Dygert shared her determination. “Last year wasn’t what I wanted, I wasn’t performing the way I knew I could,” she said. “But this year, I’m hoping for a comeback. I go into every season with big goals, and I’m excited to see where my fitness can take me. I feel like I’ve never reached my full potential yet.”
Dygert also spoke fondly about Grace Brown, her recently retired rival. “It’s almost frustrating knowing Grace won’t be alongside us,” she said. “She’s an incredible athlete. I wouldn’t be surprised if she made a comeback, but for now, she deserves to enjoy her retirement.”
Neve Bradbury: Ready to ‘Rip It Up’
Young talent Neve Bradbury is also eager to make an impact at this year’s TDU. “I’m not starting the race in peak form,” she admitted. “My goals are set for later in the year, but I’m excited to rip it up over the next few days.”
A Bright Future for Women’s Cycling
The 2025 Santos Tour Down Under promises to set new benchmarks for women’s cycling, with exciting new opportunities and a platform for showcasing the sport’s rising stars. With its strongest field to date and innovative inclusions like the double ascent of Willunga Hill and the UCI Pro Series one-day race, the event is primed to be the most action-packed and memorable ever.
Ride On are here in Adelaide for every stage of the Womens & Mens TDU – stay tuned as the world’s best cyclists take on South Australia in what promises to be an unforgettable 10 days of racing.