Demi Vollering claimed victory in a Montreal road race, finishing ahead of Kasia Niewiadoma, Elisa Longo, and Marlen Reusser. The win came after a series of climbs through the city’s green core and a final sprint on Avenue du Parc.
Key takeaways
- Race finish: Vollering crossed the line first, raising her arms in celebration.
- Main rivals: Niewiadoma, Longo and Reusser completed the podium.
- Course profile: The route featured a 1,900‑metre climb on Camillien Houde (8% gradient), a short ascent on Avenue Pagnuelo and a finish on Avenue du Parc.
- Incidents: Paula Blasi withdrew after a crash with 95 km remaining, having been ill earlier.
- Significance: At 29, Vollering described the win as a definitive breakthrough after previous near‑misses.
Race overview
The Montreal circuit wound through the leafy streets of Mont Royal, past early‑season red maples and the university campus. Riders tackled the steep Politechnic climb before confronting the long Camillien Houde ascent, which tested endurance and climbing ability.
Key moments
Vollering stayed with the leading group on the climbs and launched a decisive move on the final flat stretch. Niewiadoma and Longo attempted to respond but could not close the gap. Reusser secured third place after a late surge.
Withdrawals and crashes
Paula Blasi, who had been battling a virus, abandoned the race after being caught in a crash near the 95‑kilometre mark. She escaped serious injury but chose to pull out.