Listen & read
Cycling's elite women demand respect at The Traka 360 after chaos disrupts their race. What unfolds here highlights the ongoing struggle for fairness in women's gravel racing.
The Traka has rapidly expanded to three days and four distances, attracting 5,000 riders and 15,000 spectators in Girona. The Traka 360 event saw a staggering increase from just 73 participants in 2021 to 1,121 this year, with 77% being amateurs. Former Unbound Gravel champion Lauren De Crescenzo voices her frustrations, pointing out that safety protocols differ significantly from other major races. Pro women start just 10 minutes behind pro men, with amateurs released soon after, leading to dangerous overlaps on the course.
Geerike Schreurs, a two-time podium finisher, expresses her disappointment at amateur men starting ahead of pro women, calling it disrespectful. The race director even had to intervene as many amateurs ignored instructions to return to the start line. The lack of proper segregation compromises the integrity of the women's race and underscores a broader issue in professional cycling. As they navigate this chaos, the push for respect and fairness continues to grow louder.
Comments (0)