South African Daryl Impey expects a tough test with Paracombe featuring in this year’s Tour Down Under, which started in Tanunda today.
“With Paracombe in the race this year it changes things up. It is tough and it will test me,” said the 35-year-old Mitchelton-Scott rider, who last year become the first rider to win back-to-back titles at the event.
Paracombe, a small town near Adelaide, will make its appearance in the 131km third stage.
Competitors ride into Cudlee Creek and through Chain of Ponds to reach Inglewood.
Daryl Impey expects a tough test with Paracombe featuring in the Tour Down Under, which started in Tanunda today. Photo: A.S.O./Pauline Ballet
From there they will tackle the circuit linking it to Houghton and Paracombe four times before doubling back towards Cudlee Creek and descending Gorge Road.
Regarding his approach to the event, Impey said, “It’s similar to last year, same kind of strategy – we put in all the hard work in December.
“There’s no doubt it’s one of the favourite races on the calendar for me and it’s an important race for our team.”
Impey said he did not feel any pressure to do the “three-peat” – a third consecutive victory.
“It would obviously be great, but I think I’m just going to take it day by day.
“Every day there are some different obstacles compared to last year.
“There are new riders with new ambitions here and I think a lot of teams have also worked hard at a different strategy.
“I’m ready for it. I’ve prepared well and that’s all I can do.”
The 22nd edition of the Tour Down Under is the first race of the 2020 UCI World Tour. It comprises six stages in and around Adelaide and covers a total of 870km.
The first stage, which covered 150km, was won by Deceuninck-Quick-Step’s Sam Bennett. Impey finished 13th on the day and is currently fourth overall.
