Tour Down Under 2015: Route stage 5 - McLaren Vale – Willunga Hill

Saturday, January 24 – It takes the riders 151.5 kilometres to get from McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill. Over the past few years the stage has become a regular in the Tour Down Under. Edition 2013 saw Simon Gerrans best Tom-Jelte Slagter - whilst the Dutchman laid the groundwork for his GC win that year -, and Richie Porte took the Willunga Hill stage in 2014.

Tour Down Under 2015 stage 5: McLaren Vale – Willunga Hill

At 35 kilometres south of Adelaide, McLaren Vale is surrounded by vineyards. Today’s route is an exact copy of stages 5 in both 2013 and 2014.

Riders head in southeasterly direction for the first circuit, which is to be taken three times. Part of this round is a 8 kilometres section along the coast, meaning cross-winds could have their say.

The second circuit houses Willunga Hill, a 3 kilometres climb at 7%. Since the hill makes up the finale in today’s race it’s the perfect terrain to attack. It’s now or never for most riders eyeing up the overall, since tomorrow’s race is too short and too flat to make a difference.

Willunga Hill is crested for the first time with 22.4 kilometres left, whilst the second time it’s the finish line.

Edition 2014 saw Robert Gesink speed up Willunga Hill fastest - in 7’25”.

The finish is expected at 3.00 pm (ACST).