The stage 5 of the Giro d'Italia Women is set to be a thrilling day of racing, with a brutal day of climbing in the high mountains ahead. With 146km to cover, the race will start in Longarone and end in Santo Stefano di Cadore, passing through the ski resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo. The stage is a true test of endurance, with two 1st category climbs and two ascents of the same 3rd category climb, including the Passo Tre Croci and the Passo di Sant'Antonio. The Costa climb will also be a double ascent, adding to the challenge. With a maximum forecast temperature of 21º, the weather could play a significant role in the race, with a weather alert for storms. The race leader, Anna van der Breggen, will be looking to maintain her lead, but the weakened SD Worx-Protime team may face pressure from her GC rivals, including the young French climber, Marion Bunel, who put time into Van der Breggen on the final day of the Vuelta Femenina. The race is expected to be a major shake-up, with big time gaps and a chance for riders to gain time on the general classification. With 3,400 metres of elevation, this stage has more climbing than any other this week, making it a true test of a rider's climbing abilities. The race will start at 12:55 CET, and the tension will be high as the riders tackle the challenging terrain. The stage is a must-watch for cycling fans, with the potential for an epic day's racing and a chance for riders to make a significant impact on the overall standings. The start town of Longarone has a tragic past, having been destroyed in the Vajont Dam disaster in 1963, but the race will bring a sense of excitement and competition to the area. The race is a testament to the resilience and determination of the riders, who will push themselves to the limit to gain an advantage over their rivals. The Giro d'Italia Women is a true celebration of cycling, and stage 5 will be a memorable one, with the potential for a dramatic finish and a chance for riders to make their mark on the race.
