Thursday, September 18, 2008

Kroz Istru - Tour d'Istrie cycling races

Kroz Istru - Tour d'Istrie cycling races
19.09. - 21.09. Pula
19.09. I. etapa: Pula - Buje (93 km)
Pula - Fažana - Bale - Lim - Poreč - Vižinada - Buje

20.09. II. etapa: Umag - Labin (100 km)
Umag - Oprtalj - Livade - Pazin - Pićan

21.09. III. etapa: Rabac - Pula (103 km)
Rabac - Raša - Žminj - Dvigrad - Lim - Bale - Pula


Not many cycling races in the world can boast of having such a magnificent structure as the amphitheatre of Pula for their starting point. One of these is the International junior stage race Kroz Istru, held for the first time back in 1949, so that this year's race is its 49th edition.

Top cyclists from Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Russia, Poland, Australia, Canada, Nigeria and many other countries compete for points of the World cup (junior category) in several demanding stages. Apart from being a sports event, this race is known for its friendly atmosphere, enabling both participants and visitors to enjoy the untouched natural beauties and hospitality of hosts.

Owing to the natural diversity of the Istrian peninsula there are great possibilities for bike trails. Organizers of the legendary Giro d'Italia recognized such possibilities, so in May 2004 Istria hosted two stages of one of the world's most prestigious sports events.

The race is listed on the calendar of the World Cycling Federation (UCI)