Stage 3: Unley to Victor Harbor - 136 kms
Big Day South
Thursday 22 January
The third stage of the Tour Down Under will give spectators an interesting
choice; sit back and watch the riders make their way at a "leisurely" pace
through the streets of one of Adelaide's premier food, coffee and fashion
districts or see them pour on the power on their way to beautiful Victor Harbor.
Setting off at 11am along King William Rd, the riders will travel south in a race-neutral along Northgate St, Victoria Ave, Cross Roads and Goodwood Rd before making their way on to South Rd, St Marys.
The easy going lead up to the race will provide spectators a chance to get up close and personal and see their favourite riders pass by, rather than flash past.
When they reach South Rd, Darlington; it will be all go, with the riders beginning an immediate climb through to Clarendon and Kangarilla.
Both towns offer a unique insight into the history of South Australia, as well as a chance to enjoy small town hospitality at a local hotel or coffee shop.
But most importantly it's here you'll get an early glimpse of the pack-sorting action - the climb is quite steep and steady in the lead up to the first "King of the Mountain" challenge at Wickhams Hill at the 31.4km mark.
After the first hard climb riders settle back into steady riding, through to
the small town of Meadows - the centre for a rich dairy industry and host to a
monthly produce market featuring a wide variety of local vegetables, fruit,
jams, honey, eggs, plants, books, crafts and collectables.
For those that prefer natural history, the adjoining Kuitpo Forest is a magnificent tract of remnant bushland and a rewarding spot for bird watchers, recreational cyclists and bushwalkers alike.
But the riders won't be stopping to take in the scenery, with Meadows the first designated sprint, then a steady descent through Ashbourne and Currency Creek to Goolwa, and quickly on to the second sprint of the stage.
Situated on the mouth of the Murray River, Goolwa is one of South Australia's most historic towns, at one time a significant river port, history which survives in the town's famous PS Oscar W paddle steamer.
Riders will continue to enjoy steady terrain until their arrival at Crows Nest Rd, Kerby Hill; a well-known stretch to local cyclists and second of the King of the Mountain trials.
Insiders say Crows Nest Rd is the business end of the race - with just 20km
remaining and a fast finish at beachside Victor Harbor, riders will be looking
to stamp their authority on the field.
Victor Harbor is a great place to spend the day awaiting the race finish, with a vast array of family activities including amusement rides on the local foreshore.
It is also home to Fleurieu whale-watching and the newly completed South Australian Whale Centre, well worth taking the time to experience before seeing the best riders in the world power home for the end of Stage 3.