Sam Welsford reinforced his dominance in Tanunda today with a gutsy victory at Stage 2 of the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under, making it back-to-back stage wins in the Barossa.
The triumph saw Welsford retain the Ochre Leader’s Jersey which he will don again in Thursday’s potentially decisive efex Stage 3 from Norwood to Uraidla.
Having conquered Tanunda in 2024 for his maiden UCI WorldTour win, Welsford faced an uphill battle this time to claim his fifth career stage win at the Australian stage race. An early crash, just one kilometre from the stage start, left the Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe rider nursing gravel rash on his legs and torn knicks. He was then dropped on the third and final climb of Menglers Hill.
But nothing will stop big Sam, the West Australian powering through the pain to out-sprint Arne Marit (Intermarché-Wanty) and Bryan Coquard (Cofidis) for a thrilling finish.
A Gritty Performance Under Pressure
“That was bloody tough out there today,” Welsford admitted after the stage. “They didn’t make it any easier for me on that final Menglers Hill climb. The boys did a mega job bringing me back and still did a lead-out – it’s pretty impressive.”
With rivals launching relentless attacks on Menglers Hill, Welsford’s teammates worked tirelessly to protect their leader. Despite the chaos, Welsford delivered when it mattered, crossing the finish line with all the confidence of a rider at the top of his game.
Race Dynamics
The day started with a flurry of activity, including a three-man breakaway that managed to build a 1-minute 42-second gap. By the first lap into Tanunda, Welsford’s team controlled the peloton with precision, unfazed by the escapees.
However, the stage was anything but straightforward. Following his crash, Welsford’s ability to recover was tested to the limit, particularly after the punishing final Menglers climb. With 13 km remaining, he rejoined the peloton, thanks to an immense effort from the team.
Standout Riders
- Ziptrak Sprint Jersey: Sam Welsford added the sprint leader’s jersey to his growing haul of victories.
- efex King of the Mountain Jersey: ARA Australia’s Fergus Browning retained his polka-dot jersey after a dominant display on the climbs. The 21-year-old sits on 41 KOM points, 36 clear of teammate Zac Marriage.
- Zwift Young Rider Jersey: Great Britain’s Matthew Brennan (Team Visma-Lease a Bike) held on to the young rider’s jersey. The 19-year-old, just 14 seconds off Welsford in the general classification, continues to impress.
Looking Ahead
Welsford faces a new challenge in Stage 3 from Norwood to Uraidla, a route that promises significant general classification shake-ups with its demanding climbs and technical descents.
Stay with Ride On Magazine for on-the-ground coverage as the race for the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under title heats up.