The men’s cycling event in the narrow cobbles of Paris-Roubaix began in 1896, it took 125 years for women to seize the opportunity. The women cyclists are going to participate in the incredibly demanding “hell of the north” cycling event, a race that is situated in the narrow pavements, bumpy pathways, and such uneven terrain that it leads cyclists dusty and muddy in case of rain. As things stand, rain has been predicted for the event set to take place on Sunday. The track runs through the countryside of France and approaches places located near the Belgian border.
And of course, the uneven nature means the demand for balance as a fall can lead to extreme injuries. The total distance of the course is a whopping 160 km and a plethora of stones and pebbles will be on the way of the daring cyclists.
Unfortunately it didn't happen long before, but we're making progress. It's a reflection of the respect women's cycling is gaining. Physically, it's going to be one of the most demanding races. It's different to what I was expecting. Physically it's more draining than I expected but, in terms of skill level, I feel comfortable. This peloton hasn't raced over cobbles before," she added. "I think it will be on from the start. It's not a long race and, on the cobbled sections, there'll be fireworks. You simply can't ride over these cobbles easy.
Lizzie Deignan, British cyclist