Human Powered Health wins Tour Down Under opener

Daria Pikulik (Human Powered Health) bolted to victory Saturday to win the first stage at the Santos Tour Down Under in just her second race day on the team.

Despite some strong attacks and echelons against some gusting winds, the pack came in for the bunch sprint in the 110.4km first stage from Glenelg to Aldinga.

Pikulik was unstoppable as she roared to the line to deliver the win for Human Powered Health in just her second day of racing on the team that she joined for 2023.

“I can’t believe it, this is also my very first WorldTour race for my new team (Human Powered Health),” Pikulik said.

“I can’t believe it. My team worked so hard for this and it’s just a fantastic honor.”

Pikulik is an accomplished track rider making her way into the road scene. Sunday she proved she deserves to be there.

Clara Copping (FDJ Suez) crossed the line second, with Georgia Baker (Jayco-AlUla) rounding out the podium with third.

With time bonuses, Pikulik will carry the leader’s jersey into the 90km second stage from Birdwood to Uraidla.

Saturday’s opening stage marked the WorldTour arrival of the women’s Santos Tour Down Under, which was created in 2016.

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