When the cyclists roll out from the starting city of Kolding for the 3rd stage of the PostNord Danmark Rundt 2024, they will face a leg filled with tactical challenges and picturesque landscapes, culminating in a spectacular finale on top of Christian X’s Vej in Haderslev. This stage spans 156.1 kilometers, where riders will navigate both flat sections and demanding hills, which could be crucial for the overall classification.
The stage begins in Kolding, which for the sixth time will host the PostNord Danmark Rundt. The cyclists will embark on a neutral start from Aksel Torv in the city center before the race truly begins. The field will first ride towards Gelballe, where the first climbing sprint of the day will take place. Here, riders aiming for the King of the Mountains jersey will attempt to secure important points early on in the stage.
After Gelballe, the route continues back through Kolding before heading southeast towards Skamlingsbanken, and further on to Hejlsminde and Christiansfeld. In Christiansfeld, riders will compete for points towards the green points jersey in one of the stage’s sprint zones. The town, known for its unique architecture and history, will provide a beautiful backdrop for the first moments of excitement in the race.
The riders will then proceed towards Vojens, where Tørning Mølle marks another climbing sprint. This part of the stage will feature narrow, winding roads that could create challenges for the peloton, especially if the weather turns with wind or rain.
After passing Vojens, the field will head to Haderslev, where the stage will finish on a circuit in the city center. This circuit stretches 8.2 kilometers and must be ridden three times, concluding with a fierce sprint up Christian X’s Vej—a 1,100-meter-long hill known for its steep incline. The hill has previously proven to be a decisive factor, as seen when Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig won on this very hill during the Tour of Scandinavia in 2023.
This will be only the second time that Haderslev serves as the finish city for the PostNord Danmark Rundt, and the town has prepared for a major cycling celebration. The finish area on Christian X’s Vej will be the scene where the stage winner is crowned, and there is anticipation that the hill may be critical not just for the stage victory but also for the overall classification.
The 3rd stage offers a route that accommodates both sprinters and the more explosive climbers. The circuit in Haderslev, culminating on Christian X’s Vej, could prove too strenuous for the heavier sprinters, thus opening the door for riders with power and the ability to climb short, steep inclines.
Teams will undoubtedly have planned their tactics closely. Early breakaways may try to capture climbing points along the way, but it is expected that the bigger teams will control the peloton in preparation for a final showdown in Haderslev. Watch for riders like Magnus Cort, who has previously shown strong form in the race and possesses the abilities necessary to manage such a finish.
General classification riders will also be cautious not to lose time on this stage, although the largest gaps are likely to appear in the more challenging mountain stages. An unexpected split in the peloton on the narrow and winding roads could quickly lead to surprises, thus most teams will remain highly alert.
Haderslev welcomes the PostNord Danmark Rundt with great enthusiasm. The city and its surroundings have proven they can create a festive atmosphere around a large cycling event, and the mayor has expressed pride in participating in this year’s route. Locals expect strong support from fans and volunteers alike, setting the stage for a day filled with cycling joy.
With the final details in place and anticipation building, the stage promises to leave a mark on this year’s PostNord Danmark Rundt. The riders will need to battle not only against each other but also against the hilly terrain and a finish that demands everything they have in their legs.
Overall, it will be a stage that both spectators along the route and viewers at home will not want to miss. Mark your calendars for August 16, 2024—the PostNord Danmark Rundt, 3rd stage, will be a day brimming with drama, action, and unforgettable cycling moments.