Women Cyclists, Welcome to the L’Etape Slovenia Caravan
We encourage the active participation of women cyclists in the L’Etape Slovenia by Tour de France events. The entry fee for the Sunday race is therefore only €79.99 for you.
Historically, women’s sport developed slowly, as there was long a belief that intense physical activity was harmful to the female body. At the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, women were not allowed to compete; they first took part in 1900 in Paris, and only in selected disciplines. Likewise, modern women’s professional and recreational road cycling has developed in the shadow of the men’s peloton. Although the Tour de France has been held since 1903, women only received their own edition in 2022 – the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. That is why we are opening the doors of L’Etape Slovenia by Tour de France wide to all female cyclists – become part of the international caravan.
Sunday race: a frozen price for women cyclists
The Sunday race, with two formats—the shorter 80 km Decathlon the Ride and the longer 130 km Tosidos the Race—offers a unique experience of a professional-style race in the great company of an international cycling caravan. Every year, the share of determined female cyclists continues to grow, with excellent preparation and the ability to conquer the kilometres all the way to the finish line. For the 5th edition, we are maintaining a “frozen” entry fee for women at just €79.99.
Together, we strengthen a culture of safety and promote the principles of fair play and collegiality. (>>> Further Reading)
How do I know if the race is right for me?
The format is suitable for anyone who:
- has experience riding in a peloton
- enjoys an active lifestyle
- trains recreationally approximately 3–4 times per week
- cycles at least 3,000 km during the season leading up to the event, or less if cycling is combined with other endurance sports such as running, hiking, or cross-country skiing.
Recreational events are an opportunity for personal victories. Participation reflects your commitment to your goals, perseverance, and the overcoming of challenges. They are an adventure in personal growth.
What if I get a flat tyre?
Technical assistance is available along the route, but we recommend carrying a spare tyre or a quick repair kit. It is also advisable to practise quick tyre changes so that you are confident and it does not cause unnecessary stress.
We encourage team spirit and prior agreement within your smaller group to help each other.
What if the weather is bad?
There will be weather. 😊 Sport teaches us not to worry in advance about “what ifs” that we cannot control. Focus on what you can control. In case of (bad) weather, dress appropriately, adjust your goals and riding style to the conditions, and do not push beyond safe limits. Sport strengthens willpower—so stay committed to your intention. All the way to the finish.
The charm of the Sunday race at L’Etape Slovenia also lies in the fact that you can switch between the Ride and Race routes even on the day itself. At the designated kilometre before the start-finish area, position yourself accordingly—either cross the finish or continue onto the longer route.
What if I delay registration until the last minute?
That might not work out in your favour. Participation in the Sunday race is limited to 1,600 places for safety reasons, and currently around 70% are already filled. Early registration is also a commitment—a commitment to more regular training. Why? Because on race day, you want to enjoy the atmosphere, experience cycling in another dimension, and not deal with cramps, heavy legs, or the question, “why did I sign up for this?”
Registration is a message to the universe: ‘I will succeed’, and a commitment to yourself to make time for regular activity, without excuses, and to organise your schedule in advance.
What if I’m afraid of riding in a group?
Riding in a group has its own dynamics. Not every group ride is the same, so here are a few recommendations:
- Riding in a group is generally easier, even though speeds are higher due to drafting.
- The key is to find a group of riders with a similar pace to yours.
- In a homogeneous group, there are many opportunities to rest, but don’t forget collegiality and agree on taking turns at the front.
- Avoid starting too fast, as this often backfires and may lead to muscle cramps even before the climbs.
- Do not make sudden manoeuvres or direction changes, as this endangers fellow cyclists.
- Any sudden manoeuvre required by circumstances should be clearly signalled by hand or voice.
Before the event, make sure to do some group rides to get used to riding in a peloton.
What if I’m not fit enough for Sunday but still want to be part of L’Etape Slovenia?
For this very reason, the two-day festival programme includes a variety of cycling events for all generations and fitness levels. You can participate actively or be part of the unforgettable spectator atmosphere.
Saturday events
- Future heroes children’s races for toddlers and primary school children, 800 m loop.
- Family ride – group ride, 12.5 km (all types of bicycles allowed, including e-bikes).
- Merkur zavarovalnica business ride, non-competitive group ride, 34 km (all types of bicycles allowed, including e-bikes).
- Merkur zavarovalnica business ride, team race in pairs, 34 km, competitive event with categories: female, male, mixed.
- Jelenov klanec hill climb challenge, the shortest time trial in the world, 500 m.
Welcome, dear female cyclists, to the L’Etape Slovenia community. (>>> More about the community)
