On August 14, 2024, the third stage of the Tour of Poland presents a challenging route for cyclists, covering 156.5 kilometers from Wałbrzych to Duszniki-Zdrój. This stage is one of the most demanding in the race, featuring steep climbs and technical descents in the mountainous region of Lower Silesia.
The cyclists will begin their journey in Wałbrzych, starting at the historical Old Mine Museum. Early in the stage, the riders will face their first major challenge at the Walim Pass, categorized as a 2nd category climb. This will be followed by another tough ascent at the Jugowska Pass, and later, they will tackle the notorious climb at Karłów, which they must conquer twice. Here, competitors will vie for points in the mountain classification, which can significantly impact the overall standings.
The finale of the stage culminates in the demanding ascent to Jamrozowa Polana in Duszniki-Zdrój, where last year’s stage winner, Rafał Majka, celebrated victory. The conclusion is anticipated to showcase a spectacular battle among the best climbers, as the final climb is known for its steep segments that can create substantial time gaps between competitors.
With over 3,000 meters of elevation gain and several challenging ascents, this stage is tailor-made for climbers, and we can expect a tactical showdown among the riders, where only the strongest will be able to maintain their position until the finish line. This stage is critical for those with ambitions to win the overall classification.
Expectations for the Stage
This particular stage may prove crucial for the overall standings, and especially riders strong in the mountains, such as Jonas Vingegaard and Rafał Majka, are expected to play a central role. The steep ascents and the technical descent preceding the final climb make the stage highly unpredictable and strategically engaging.
Overall, the third stage is set to be an intense day in the saddle, with riders pushed to their limits in the beautiful, yet harsh, landscape of Lower Silesia.