The Vuelta a Extremadura Femenina came to an end with its decisive third stage, a demanding 139.4-kilometre route from Jerte to Jaraíz de la Vera that ultimately determined the final general classification.
The stage – and the overall victory – went to Australian national champion Mackenzie Coupland (Liv AlUla Jayco), who proved strongest on the day and sealed the title with an impressive performance in the final breakway after the final climb.
It was a difficult stage for UAE Team ADQ. France’s Maeva Squiban was unable to follow the pace of the favourites on the decisive ascent and dropped out of contention for the top positions.
Australia’s Brodie Chapman fought hard to limit the damage on the demanding finale. The experienced rider finished the stage in the second chasing group, crossing the line in ninth place, 1’40” behind the stage winner.
Thanks to her consistent performances over the three days of racing, Chapman secured fifth place in the final general classification, closing the Spanish stage race as the best finisher for UAE Team ADQ.
(ph. Sprint Cycling Agency)
