The Venezuelan Lilibeth Chacón (Clarus Merquimia Strongman) was awarded the first stage and the leadership of the Women’s Tour of Costa Rica Telecable, in a close duel against the Mexican Marcela Prieto and the Colombian Karen Villamizar (Pato Bike).
The 113.4 kilometer route between San Isidro, Pérez Zeledón, Buenos Aires and Peñas Blancas, was completed in the midst of an exciting duel between nine foreigners who made up the leader of the race and the chasing group led by the Costa Rican cyclists Sharon Ramírez (CMS Zepol Cycling Team), María Fernanda Sánchez (CBZ – Cape – Segnet BYA), Milagro Mena and Dixiana Quesada (Colono Bikestation Kolbi).
Although the peloton rode compactly for almost 70 kilometers under the rhythm of Roxo Racing from the United States, among some falls and mechanical failures, it disintegrated in the only mountain pass of the day (El Bosque), due to an attack by Lilibeth Chacón (Clarus Merquimia Strongman) promoted by his partner Luisa Hernández.
The Colombian team’s proposal was reinforced with Kira Payer, Nadia Gontova and Jacqueline Larouche (Roxo Racing); Marcela Prieto and Karen Villamizar (Pato Bike); Jasmin Gabriela Soto and Valeria León (Macizo Cordelsa – Don Paletero), quickly achieving a difference of more than a minute.
Meanwhile, the efforts of the Ticos were unable to counteract the advance of their rivals towards the goal and although they managed to reduce the gap, they were unable to connect before the definition.
Finally, Luisa Hernández prepared the auction for Lilibeth Chacón, corresponding to her favoritism as the current champion in Guatemala and Colombia, winning first place in General Viejo, against Marcela Prieto and Karen Villamizar (Pato Bike).
The second stage of the Women’s Tour of Costa Rica Telecable will be held between La Unión, Peñas Blancas and General Viejo, over 24.6 kilometers. It is expected that the day in front of the stopwatch will be crucial in the dispute for the general classification.
Full results here: https://fecoci.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/RESULTADOS-ETAPA-1.pdf
Source: Marisol Toro at www.crciclismo.com