The Tour de France Femmes is the New Obsession for Sports Girlies
Anya Louw and Ilse Pluimers - Getty Images
The Tour de France Femmes is here and you need to tune in. This isn’t just a race; it’s a movement and a long-overdue spotlight on the power and grace of female athletes in a sport that's historically been a boys’ club.
Grab your helmets and get ready to pedal through some history, star riders, and why this race deserves a prime spot on your sports radar.
A Brief History: From Shadows to Center Stage
Let’s rewind the tape a bit. The original Tour de France—yes, the one where men race through the French countryside with quads of steel—has been around since 1903. Women, however, were left on the sidelines until 1984, when the first women's Tour de France, known as the "Tour de France Féminin," was introduced. But the women’s tour faced its fair share of challenges. It was canceled after a few years due to financial difficulties and lack of support, leaving female cyclists without a grand stage.
Fast forward to 2022—cue the comeback music! The Tour de France Femmes was relaunched with a fresh new vibe, thanks to the efforts of ASO (Amaury Sport Organisation), the same people behind the men's tour. Think of it as the cycling world’s version of Taylor Swift's "Eras" tour—bigger, bolder, and ready to break records.
The Route: More Than Just a Pretty Ride
Alpe d’Huez - Getty Images
This year's Tour de France Femmes kicked off with a bang on August 12th. The race spans over eight stages, covering everything from flat sprints to grueling mountain climbs. It’s like a road trip movie, where each stage brings its own set of challenges and breathtaking scenery. The race kicked off with its first-ever Grand Départ outside of France, beginning in Rotterdam and featuring three exciting stages in the Netherlands. From there, the route winds its way south, leading to a dramatic finale in the Alps, where the final stage will culminate with a thrilling summit finish at the legendary Alpe d'Huez.
Stars of the Show
Now, every great race has its stars, and The Tour de France Femmes is no exception. Here are some cyclists to keep your eyes on, that have helped grow the tournament.
Annemiek van Vleuten: She’s basically the Meryl Streep of women’s cycling—unstoppable with a list of achievements that could fill a library. Van Vleuten is won in 2022 and is a force to be reckoned with. Her climbing skills? Legendary.
Marianne Vos: If you need a versatile talent, Marianne Vos is your girl. With Olympic golds and world championships under her belt, Vos has a knack for winning, whether it’s on the flats, in sprints, or over rough terrain. She’s a crowd favorite and for a good reason.
Demi Vollering: Vollering is like the rising pop star who’s about to take over the charts. She’s young and fierce, and as the defending champion, she's ready to challenge the veterans. Her explosive power on the climbs and sprints makes her a rider to watch—and maybe even a future queen of the Tour.
Why You Should Tune In
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If you’re still on the fence about tuning into The Tour de France Femmes, here’s the deal: This race is not just a sporting event; it’s a statement. It’s about celebrating women who’ve fought to have their place in a sport historically dominated by men. It’s about showcasing the sheer talent, determination, and spirit of female athletes who refuse to be sidelined.
Plus, with stunning backdrops (the French countryside is practically a Pinterest board come to life) and edge-of-your-seat drama, The Tour de France Femmes is like binge-watching your favorite series—only this time, the cliffhangers come in the form of nail-biting sprints and breathtaking climbs.
So, whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or just someone looking for a new obsession, The Tour de France Femmes is the event to watch this summer. It’s fast, it’s fierce, and it’s full of the kind of energy that makes you want to get up, get out, and start pedaling toward your own dreams.