stayj ray-s
Noun
A multi-day bicycle race that includes several stages, each of which is raced separately. The rider with the lowest cumulative time wins.
Example usage: 'I'm competing in a stage race this weekend.'
Most used in: Europe, Australia and North America.
Most used by: Professional and amateur cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Grand Tour, Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España,
What is a Stage Race in Cycling?
A stage race in cycling is a multi-day event where riders compete against the clock and against each other. The stages are usually separated by rest days and the rider with the lowest cumulative time is declared the winner. The event can be a single-stage race, such as a time trial, or a multi-stage race, such as the Tour de France, which consists of 21 stages over three weeks.
Stage races can be further divided into “flat” or “mountain” stages, depending on the terrain. Flat stages are typically longer than mountain stages and involve more sprinting and power. Mountain stages, on the other hand, require more endurance and technical skill.
Stage races are a test of endurance and strategy, and they often require riders to have a well-rounded set of skills. Each stage requires riders to adjust their tactics to the terrain and the conditions, and to make decisions about when to conserve energy and when to push the limits.
Stage races are popular among professional cyclists, and they attract large crowds of spectators. For example, the Tour de France draws millions of viewers each year, and it is considered one of the world’s most prestigious cycling events.
.A Brief History of the Term 'Stage Race' in Cycling
The term 'stage race' was first used in the context of cycling in the late 19th century in France. The first known stage race was the Bordeaux–Paris race of 1891, which was a 1,178 km race that was divided into six stages. This race was a great success and, in the years that followed, stage races became popular in Europe.
The first Tour de France was held in 1903 and it was the first stage race to take place in multiple countries. The Tour de France is still one of the most popular stage races today and it is considered to be the most prestigious cycling event in the world.
Stage races are now held all over the world and they are a popular form of professional cycling. Stage races typically consist of multiple stages, which are usually held over consecutive days. Each stage is a separate race and the overall winner of the stage race is the cyclist who has the lowest total time at the end of all the stages.
