
Sarah Gigante reflects on Willunga Hill, the 2025 route, and watching the Santos Tour Down Under from the sidelines

Looking Back: Willunga Hill and a Memorable Victory
“Willunga Hill has become one of my favourite climbs because of the incredible memories I have from racing there in 2024. It was amazing to finish off the incredible work of my teammates and cross the line as the stage and overall winner. I didn’t think about winning until just a few hundred meters from the finish, when I saw the big QOM crown painted on the road.
At that moment, the pain in my legs and the worries in my mind vanished, replaced by pure joy and disbelief. Hearing my wonderful DS and teammates cheer for me on the radio while the home crowd roared from the sidelines gave me goosebumps—it still does to this day. It felt like a dream come true after some very tough years.”
Thoughts on the 2025 Route
“The route this year is a definite step up from last year. I still hope to see more stages and longer distances in the future, especially for a Women’s World Tour race, but the organisers have done a great job of creating a dynamic and exciting course.
Adding a second climb of Willunga Hill in Stage 2 and moving the Stirling stage to the final day will encourage more aggressive racing, as teams have opportunities to close GC gaps from earlier stages. Winning on Willunga Hill will be a huge accomplishment, but defending the jersey in the final stage will be just as challenging—an exciting prospect for fans. Strong climbing and excellent teamwork will be crucial for success.”

On the Favourites and Teammates
“It’s hard to predict who will take home the ochre jersey this year, but I wouldn’t bet against top climbers like Niamh Fisher-Black or Neve Bradbury. Kiwis and Aussies tend to peak early in the season and love performing in front of home crowds.
I’m also excited to see how my teammates Justine Ghekiere and Julie Van De Velde perform. Justine has dominated nearly every QOM classification she’s entered, and Julie was an integral part of my victory last year, finishing 8th overall despite sacrificing so much for the team. I’m curious to see Alex Manly’s debut with AG Insurance – Soudal as well—she’s back where she won her first WWT stage in 2023, and I think she’ll do something special.”
Watching from the Sidelines
“Not being able to defend my title at my favourite race is tough, but I’m grateful that my recovery is going well, and I’m on track for a mid-season return. For now, I can cheer on my teammates while watching the race live on TV—or from the elliptical! Every day brings me closer to riding and racing again.”

A Personal Note
“To riders experiencing the Santos Tour Down Under for the first time, I’d say: enjoy every moment of being Down Under and make the most of this opportunity. Soak up the summer sun and keep an eye out for a koala or two!
For me, the TDU is special because it’s one of the few chances I get to race in front of family and friends. Spending most of the year overseas makes it even more meaningful to compete in Australia, where the support from home crowds and commentators is unmatched.”
