Stage 2 – Velothon Sunshine Coast Preview

In July this year, Australia will host its first ever Velothon. Set on the Sunshine Coast, an hour north of Brisbane, riders will have the opportunity to tackle not just a 1 Day, but a 3 Day Velothon, covering some of the most challenging and truly stunning roads in Australia. Here’s what to expect on stage 2.

Photography: Marcus Enno (Beardy McBeard)

The aim of Velothon is to bring a stage-race environment to a grand fondo setting. It is a global series of events, that will span across Germany, Wales, Sweden, Canada and Australia in 2017. The Australian edition will not disappoint, with the home of the event set in the picturesque beach-side town of Mooloolaba.

Velo Clubhouse:

Velothon wants to challenge riders across the event, but above all, it is about riding with mates and enjoying the journey. That’s why riders will have access to the Velo Clubhouse, right on the beach in Mooloolaba. This will be the event hub, a place where riders can enjoy delicious coffee, beer, snacks and watch the highlights of the Tour de France – all on the big screen! It’s an exciting element to the event which we are sure will become a big highlight for the riders.

Stage 2:

After a solid first stage covering 110km, riders will start Stage 2 with a significant amount of fatigue in their legs. It’s here that riders are gifted an opportunity to see what it may be like for the professional riders to back up day after day in stage races.

The second stage, a sprinters’ affair, isn’t a stroll around the park. The profile fails to provide a clear indication of it’s difficulty with a fair share of challenges thrown in along the course. A number of small climbs, while not a real challenge on their own, will be sure to take a toll on the legs after riders have conquered a tough opening day. For those looking to stop along the route and soak up the atmosphere, you’ll find countless photo opportunities dotted along the course.

Key Details (Stage 2):

Stage 2 will be great opportunity to get some speed in the legs after the climbs from the first stage. One particular section cuts through a forest and offers a great chance to pick up the pace.