The Wolfpack - Women's Pro Cycling Team
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How does it feel to start your season with the UAE Tour?

"I’m really excited to start my season with the UAE Tour. For me, it’s great to begin with a stage race so early in the season because it gives you a few days to get into the race rhythm again after the preparation period. It’s also held in a warm location, which is always nice, and it’s the perfect opportunity to see where I stand with my shape after the winter."

You raced this event before in 2023. How do you look back on that edition, and what lessons are you bringing into this year?

"Yeah, I did the first edition back in 2023. Unfortunately, it wasn’t a great experience for me because I got COVID during the race and didn’t even get to race the stage with Jebel Hafeet, which was the one I was most excited about because of the climb. That was really disappointing. The day before I got sick, we had a windy stage with echelons, and I suffered a lot—it was probably the worst day I’ve ever had on the bike. This year, I hope to turn things around and really enjoy the race from start to finish."

How have you prepared for this stage race?

"I think I’ve put in a good mix of training this winter, and I feel ready to start the season. To prepare specifically for the UAE Tour, I’ll also include some heat training for the final touches before heading there. Then we’ll see where we are during the race."

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The UAE Tour is known for its sprint stages and the challenging climb up Jebel Hafeet. Which stage are you most looking forward to, and why?

"For sure, I’m most excited about the stage with the final climb up Jebel Hafeet. I see that this year it’s also a long stage, so you have to stay focused all day and conserve as much energy as possible for the final climb. It’s going to be tough, but I’m really looking forward to it."

What are your expectations for the race?

"We have a strong team going there. For the sprint stages, we have a couple of really strong riders who can handle the flats, echelons, and sprints. And then we have Ashleigh and myself for the climb. It’s my first race with the team, so my main focus will be on getting used to racing with my new teammates and building our dynamic as a team.

Results-wise, I’d love to aim for a top-10 finish on the third stage with Jebel Hafeet or maybe help launch Ashleigh to a great result. I also want to improve my skills in the crosswinds, so I’m curious to see how I perform in those conditions."

What do you think of this year’s route and the mix of stages?

"I think it’s a nice route. It’s quite similar to previous editions, but I like that the race doesn’t start with overly hectic stages—it gives you time to settle into the rhythm of racing. That said, the stages won’t be easy. Stage two, with the wind, will bring a lot of adrenaline and stress.

Of course, I’d love to have more climbs, but I’m not complaining! The climb at Jebel Hafeet is a great way to start the season, and it’s like a little test ahead of my bigger goals later in the year."