French Cyclists Gear Up for 2025 Uci Gran Fondo World Championships in australia
Three athletes from Villemoustaussou Carca Team Agglo have secured their spots at the 2025 Uci Gran Fondo World Championships, set to take place in Lorne, Australia, from October 16 to 19. The Gran Fondo, a popular long-distance cycling event attracting participants of all ages and genders, continues to gain momentum globally.
Émilie Decamps, Libero Di Murro, and Stéphane Marson will represent the French cycling team. Their journey to the championships promises intense preparation and fierce competition.
Émilie Decamps: A Seasoned Competitor
Émilie Decamps, a 38-year-old cyclist from Ariège, is no stranger to the world stage. Having competed in two previous world championships in Scotland and Denmark, she recently qualified for her third appearance.Her journey to Australia began at the Gran Fondo race in Cyprus in early April.
Over three days, which included two road stages and a time trial, Decamps secured second place positioning her behind a former Russian cyclist and a Canadian competitor. Her success in Cyprus earned her a coveted spot in the World Championships.
Following her Cyprus victory, Decamps participated in the Gran Fondo de Perpignan, where she earned second place in both the road race and the time trial, underscoring her consistent performance.
European Championship Ambitions
Decamps is now focused on the European Gran Fondo Championship on June 15, where she aims for a top-10 finish. This race will be held during the Ardéchoise cyclo-sportive event, featuring a challenging 185 km course with 3,500 meters of elevation gain.
Prior to heading to Australia, Decamps plans to compete in the Ariège cyclo event on June 28, known for its demanding Pyrenean passes. She will then take a short break before resuming training to ensure peak performance for the World Championships.
Two More Qualifiers
Libero Di Murro, competing in the 40-44 age category, also secured a spot in the world championships. After narrowly missing qualification in Cyprus, he successfully qualified at the Gran Fondo de Perpignan in the time trial event.
Stéphane Marson, from Chaurien, will join the team in the 50-55 age category. His performance in Perpignan earned him a place in the online race in Australia.
Road to the Championships
The road to the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships is rigorous, demanding both physical and mental toughness.
| Cyclist | Category | Qualification Event |
|---|---|---|
| Émilie Decamps | Women’s Open | Gran Fondo Cyprus |
| Libero Di Murro | 40-44 | Gran Fondo de Perpignan (Time Trial) |
| Stéphane Marson | 50-55 | Gran Fondo de Perpignan (Online Race) |
The Growing Popularity Of gran Fondo
Gran Fondo events continue to attract cyclists worldwide, blending competitive racing with the spirit of camaraderie.
did You Know? The UCI Gran Fondo World Series includes multiple events globally, allowing cyclists to qualify for the annual World Championships.
Training Regimen
Cyclists typically follow a structured training plan that includes endurance rides, interval training, and strength conditioning. Proper nutrition and recovery are also crucial components of their preparation.
Pro Tip: Incorporate hill repeats into your training to build strength and improve climbing ability, which is essential for courses with meaningful elevation gain.
Preparing for a Gran Fondo: Tips for Aspiring Cyclists
Participating in a gran Fondo requires dedication and strategic preparation. Here are some tips to help aspiring cyclists get ready for such events:
- Build Endurance: Gradually increase your mileage over several months to build the necessary stamina.
- Practice Climbing: Incorporate hilly routes into your training to prepare for elevation changes.
- Nutrition: Develop a nutrition plan that includes proper hydration and fueling strategies for long rides.
- Gear Check: Ensure your bike is in optimal condition and that you have all necessary equipment, including spare tubes, tools, and appropriate clothing.
- Rest and Recovery: Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent overtraining and injury.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gran Fondo Cycling
What are your thoughts on the upcoming championships? Which cyclist do you think has the best chance of winning? Share your predictions and join the discussion below!
