From East Bavaria to Franconia: "The route is set, we have great cities and communities as hosts and the stages already promise an exciting race", says Bayern Rundfahrt race director Ewald Strohmeier, who is also happy about the sections in the Alps. Because after a few years of abstinence, the pros can look forward to a trip to the high mountains again in 2014. As part of the annual general meeting of the organizing association, a few days before the official date for the presentation of the route for the coming year - which will take place on December 5th in Nuremberg - Strohmeier gave a first small overview of the sporting program. "The preparations are going according to plan, in the meantime we are already planning for the 2015 edition and are setting out the first key data there."
In 2014, the Bayern Rundfahrt awaits the pros with five stages through Bavaria, which will have to cover a total of around 800 kilometers. Route boss Walter Oestreich is also planning a stage with a classic length of more than 200 kilometers.
Looking back on the weather in May this year, everyone involved received a big compliment: “Due to the cold and wet weather, it was basically the hardest and most uncomfortable tour we’ve ever had across all stages – for everyone. Both for the drivers and for the employees of the tour, the fire brigades, police and those involved in the stage locations. Nonetheless, there was a tremendous response from the audience. That also gives us confidence for the future,” says Oestreich. Strohmeier also commented on the reporting on television in a similar way: "We will discuss together with the Bavarian television how we can expand the TV presence of the Bayern Rundfahrt. The signals are positive.”
So the signs are good for the biggest German stage race, which will take place in 2014 from May 27th to June 1st. Then it will become clear who will succeed Italian Adriano Malori (Lampre-Merida) as overall winner.