Yates and Peña to Conquer Gravity in Taiwan KOM Challenge

Team Jayco AlUla’s Simon Yates and Jesus David Peña are gearing up to take on the notorious Taiwan KOM Challenge on October 27th. The challenging event, held in Hualien County, features an 87km climb that starts at sea level and ends at a staggering 3,275 meters. With an average gradient of 3.5% and a maximum gradient of 15.7%, this race is known as one of the most difficult hill climbs in the world.

Yates and Peña are eager to represent their team’s bike sponsor, Giant, in their home country and aim for victory in the KOM Challenge. Yates had a remarkable 2023 season, with a stage victory at the Tour Down Under and a fourth-place finish at the Tour de France. Peña, on the other hand, had a breakout year with his debut victory at the Tour of Slovenia and an eighth-place finish at the Tour of Guangxi.

Speaking about the upcoming challenge, Yates expressed his excitement for the unique style of racing: “There are not many climbs like that and doing a race that is basically one big climb will be a really interesting challenge and totally different to anything I’ve done before.” He also highlighted the significance of representing Giant in Taiwan and meeting fans.

Peña, a climber hailing from Colombia, believes that the KOM Challenge suits his strengths: “I think it is a race that suits me, I am a climber and coming from Colombia I am used to climbing at altitude.” He expressed his enthusiasm for the uphill race, calling it “something really different and exciting.”

The Taiwan KOM Challenge, which began in 2012, has attracted riders from around the world who seek to test their limits. Vincenzo Nibali currently holds the course record with a time of 3:19:54.

The stage is set for Yates and Peña to take on gravity in this grueling race of endurance and determination. With their impressive performances throughout the season, they are ready to make their mark in the Taiwan KOM Challenge and end their year on a high note.