Share this
by Gabriel Togan on 19.09.24 15:58
In 2024, Zurich will become the global center of cycling when the UCI Road and Para-cycling World Championships take place from September 21 to 29 in the city and surrounding canton. For the first time in the history of this prestigious competition, para-cyclists will be fully integrated into the program alongside their able-bodied counterparts. This underscores the importance of inclusion and promotes visibility for athletes with disabilities in high-performance sports.
A Superlative Event
Around 1,000 riders from over 75 nations will participate in the Road World Championships, while about 300 athletes from 50 countries will compete in the Para-cycling World Championships. Spectators can look forward to nine days of high-level competition across various disciplines, including individual time trials, road races, and team relays. Particularly exciting: all road races will finish at the Sechseläutenplatz, a central and iconic location on the shores of Lake Zurich.
The Courses: A Classic through the Alps
The championship courses offer a mix of steep climbs and picturesque landscapes. The men’s elite will tackle a 273.9 km route with a total elevation of 4,470 meters, while the women’s elite will cover 154.1 km. The routes pass through famous Zurich areas such as Zürichberg and Witikon, challenging the riders to their limits. One of the toughest climbs will be Kyburg, with gradients of up to 16%, pushing the riders to their absolute best.
Inclusion and Diversity: The Integration of Para-cycling
At the heart of these championships is the full integration of para-cycling events on the same courses as those for able-bodied athletes. The para-cycling events will include handbikes, tricycles, and tandems, featuring individual time trials, road races, and team relays. Starting points and course lengths vary depending on the sport class, posing significant challenges for the athletes. A highlight will be the mixed handbike relay, part of the opening ceremony, further promoting inclusion.
Changes at Enterprise GO during the Event
Due to the large-scale UCI Road and Para-cycling World Championships, there will be significant traffic restrictions in Zurich and surrounding areas. To ensure the smooth operation of the event, Enterprise GO will temporarily close its locations in affected areas. From September 21 to 29, the following GO locations will be closed:
- Winterthur Seen SBB P+Rail
- Oberwinterthur SBB P+Rail
- Hettlingen SBB P+Rail
- Seuzach SBB P+Rail
- Uster Bahnhof
- Zürich Bleicherweg
- Meilen SBB P+Rail
- Erlenbach SBB P+Rail
We thank you for your understanding and look forward to serving you at our other locations in the region.
More Than Just a Sporting Highlight
Alongside the exciting races, the city of Zurich will host a public festival centered around cycling. Fan zones, side events, and competitions for amateur cyclists will create a vibrant atmosphere for all attendees. The city and canton of Zurich view this event as an opportunity to further promote cycling and raise awareness about mobility and environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
The UCI Road and Para-cycling World Championships 2024 in Zurich promise an unforgettable experience for athletes and fans alike. This unique combination of elite competition, inclusion, and public engagement will not only bring sporting glory to Zurich but also leave a lasting impression.