Willunga Hill finish for 2019 Santos Tour Down Under

Organisers have shapen up the Santos Tour Down Under order with a much-needed mountain finish at Willunga Hill.

The 10-20 January race will forgo the usual procession around the streets of Adelaide in favour of a potential showdown on the hilly outskirts of the South Australian capital.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Director, Mike Turtur, said the organisation faced an unenviable challenge each year to design a course for the race that will test the riders and create a spectacle for the fans.

“We knew we had to create something special for the 2019 event and deliver something a little different in terms of the race routes after the amazing race we had this year. We have decided to mix it up and make Willunga Hill the grand finale and probably now the deciding factor of the race’s result.

“it is important as a race that we keep everyone guessing and the rides challenged. We can’t be complacent.

“We are really excited about a first-time stage finish in Port Adelaide on Stage 1 with a 3.4km finishing circuit especially after the huge crowds their start drew this year and will be interested to see how the punchy new 14km Uraidla circuit on Stage 3 which will see the riders pass through seven times will be received."

The 2019 Santos Tour Down Under will be held 10 – 20 January 2019 starting with Stage 1 of the Santos Women’s Tour Down Under on Thursday 10 January.

Santos Tour Down Under dates and route.

Sunday 13 January 2019: People’s Choice Classic: East End Circuit (51km)

Tuesday 15 January 2019: Stage 1: North Adelaide to Port Adelaide (132.4km)

Wednesday 16 January 2019: Stage 2: Norwood to Angaston (149km)

Thursday 17 January 2019: Stage 3: Lobethal to Uraidla (146.2km)

Friday 18 January 2019: Stage 4: Unley to Campbelltown (129.2km)

Saturday 19 January 2019: Stage 5: Glenelg to Strathalbyn (149.5km)

Sunday 20 January 2019: Be Safe Be Seen MAC Stage 6: McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill (151.5km)