BUTTERWORTH – The third stage of Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL), scheduled for tomorrow from Taiping to Cameron Highlands, is dubbed the Queen stage, as the climb in Brinchang is the highest ascent in this year’s race.
Traditionally, the Queen stage of LTdL is associated with the iconic climb to Genting Highlands.
Any rider who conquers the summit of Genting Highlands significantly boosts their chances of retaining and eventually winning the green jersey (formerly yellow), also known as the overall champion.
Originally, the Genting Highlands climb was part of this year’s LTdL route, but it was changed in May to a new course from Kuala Kubu Bharu to Bentong due to safety concerns arising from ongoing roadworks along Genting Highlands.
The announcement was well received by some riders, with several expressing that without the Genting Highlands route, it would create an even playing field for all competitors in the race.
However, Cameron Highlands will still offer a formidable challenge to all LTdL riders as they face a 1.63-kilometer (km) climb classified as Hors category before reaching the finish line.
In addition, they will face two climbing zones, starting in Kuala Kangsar and another in Kampung Raja, before attempting to conquer Cameron Highlands, completing a total race distance of 170.3 km.
Last year’s King of the Mountain, Simon Pellaud, is relieved that Genting Highlands won’t be a part of the LTdL this year, but he remains aware of the formidable challenge that awaits him in Cameron Highlands.
“Most of the points will come from the climb at Cameron Highlands. If possible, I need to stay with the top climbers from other teams when the ascent begins, while also supporting my teammates in their quest for the green jersey.
“If there’s an opportunity for me to break away, I might do it, and I think the climb at Cameron will be a battle among the climbers,” said Pellaud, who has yet to secure any jersey after two races.
As for the current holder of the polka dot jersey, Tyler Tomkinson from Ara Skip Capital, his abilities as a climbing specialist will be put to the test, as there are no climbing zones available during today’s second stage of the race from Arau to Butterworth.
“I consider myself an all-rounder, capable of handling any role within the team, and I don’t actually see myself as a climbing specialist. To be honest, I’m surprised to be wearing this jersey (polka dot).
“Let’s see in the third stage if I can break away and collect more points,” said Tyler. – September 30, 2024