Ultra-cycling races have become increasingly popular in recent years.
These are long-distance cycling events, often lasting several days, that can cover hundreds of kilometers across challenging terrain.
Okay, Wilma, what about the girls in all this?
More and more women are inspired by the challenges of these races, where the mental and psychological aspects take precedence over the clock (a quest for meaning rather than a race against the clock).
With determination, perseverance, and courage, they overcome obstacles and make their dreams come true in the world of ultra-cycling: Women empower 💪
And the Wilma team is encouraging everyone to go out and experience the thrill of pushing their limits⚡️ GO GIRLS
Wilma's selection of the best ultra-cycling races
1. PocoLoco ⬇️
A first of its kind, PocoLocowas created by a group of enthusiasts!
La Pocoloco invites you on an adventure across France and beyond, taking you through breathtaking landscapes. A journey driven by a commitment to both social and environmental causes.
The goal? To push yourself and refocus on a unique journey
Bonus: Girl power! Pocoloco has implemented a quota to increase gender parity, which currently stands at less than 20% among ultras.
2. Race Across France ⬇️
It has become the premier event in ultra-distance cycling in Europe. With four distances (300, 500, 1,000, and 2,500 km), it brings together cycling adventure enthusiasts ready to push their limits to experience the thrill and an unforgettable life experience.
Bonus: Girl power! For all of you who don't have our cycling shorts yet Bloody Queen (seriously?? 😱), you’ll find period products at every checkpoint along the route! And we’re just in awe of this wonderful initiative
3. Transcontinental ⬇️
The Transcontinental Race (TCR) is an annual, self-supported, ultra-distance bikepacking race across Europe. The route varies for each edition, but participants are free to choose their own route between the mandatory checkpoints.
Bonus: Girl power: In 2019, Fiona Kolbinger won the seventh Transcontinental Race.
Her victory marks a first for a woman in the history of ultra-distance cycling (we’re huge fans 🤩).
4. 200 km, 200 girls ⬇️
For the third year in a row, the Audax Club Parisien is organizing a 200-km cycling event open exclusively to women. The goal is to highlight women’s long-distance cycling and bring together female cyclists from all walks of life— what could be better? 200 spots are available (expandable to a maximum of 300), and registration costs 5 or 7 euros
P.S.: This year, Wilma is an official partner of " 200km 200 Nanas." Will you join us there?
5. Paris–Roubaix Challenge ⬇️
The Paris-Roubaix Challenge is a French cycling race held every April. It is a popular event among both amateur and professional cyclists and is considered one of the greatest challenges on the European cycling calendar.
The race takes place on a course of over 250 km connecting Paris to Roubaix, and passes through several cobbled sections famous for their difficulty. The Paris-Roubaix Challenge is one of the oldest races in cycling history, having been held for the first time in 1896. It is an iconic race for cycling fans and is widely regarded as one of the most difficult and prestigious events on the cycling calendar. Riders from around the world come to take on this challenge and attempt to win one of the most coveted titles in cycling.
6. Pan-Celtic Race ⬇️
“A unique and authentic journey of discovery into the heart of the Celtic nations”: this is the experience offered by the organizers of thePan Celtic Race.
The Pan Celtic is an ultra-endurance race that winds through the Celtic nations of Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, and Brittany.
A different route every year, taking in breathtaking terrain and landscapes steeped in Celtic tradition.
7. SUCH ⬇️
The Swiss Ultracycling Challenge (SUCH) is an ultra-cycling event that will take place in Switzerland in September 2023.
The Swiss Ultra Cycling Challenge is a popular destination for long-distance cyclists in Switzerland and neighboring countries, offering a unique challenge for both experienced riders and those looking to improve their skills. Riders can register individually or as a team, and the race can be completed in a single day or over several days.
Switzerland is known for its beautiful landscapes and winding mountain roads... which offer epic and challenging routes
8. Desertus Bikus ⬇️
The Desertus Bikus is a gravel bike event in the bikepacking category.
Setting off from France to explore Spain and its desert regions
So, ultra-distance cycling races in Europe are a physical and mental challenge for riders of all levels.
These races are a constantly evolving level playing field for women, but they demonstrate a strong desire to participate and break down barriers.
Support and recognition from the cycling community can help break down barriers for women and promote inclusion in this exciting and demanding sport.
So, let's go, girls??? 🤘
