A Brutal Test in Abruzzo: Four Days of Relentless Climbing at Maximum Intensity
Abruzzo is one of Italy’s most enchanting regions, offering a mix of golden beaches and vineyards nestled on eye-catching ridges — in short, a perfect tourist destination.
But it’s hard to believe that any of this beauty will register with our seven riders as they line up Tuesday morning for the Giro d’Abruzzo. Over four demanding days, they’ll face a brutally tough climbing challenge — with over 10,000 meters of elevation gain. Three of the four stages finish uphill or on a rising slope, and tired legs or an off day could quickly mean an early exit.
“Abruzzo is going to be a tough test for everyone — even the experienced riders, and certainly for the younger guys in the squad, some of whom are getting their first taste of pro racing,” says Sports Director Lahav Davidzon.
The team’s strategy is clear: it’s all for George Bennett. The seasoned New Zealander delivered an impressive ride at this race a year ago, finishing third overall, and he’ll be aiming to match — or even improve on — that performance.
“I’m expecting a good race with such a young squad,” Bennett says, noting that aside from his IPT teammate Stevie Williams, the rest of the roster is made up of Academy riders. “Hopefully, with their help, I can achieve an even better result than in 2024 — and use this race as preparation for the Ardennes.”
Two of the riders, Finlay Tarling from the UK and Roei Edinger from Tel Adashim, Israel, are just 18 years old. For the talented Israeli, it’s set to be his very first professional race — and there’s no doubt he’s being thrown straight into the deep end. “This is a very tough challenge for him,” says Davidzon. “But we believe he has what it takes.”
Edinger adds: “To be honest, I don’t really know what to expect — I’m coming from the junior level, and the racing there is a completely different story. But I feel ready, physically and mentally, and I believe I can prove I belong here.”
Meanwhile, Williams — without question Israel – Premier Tech’s standout rider of 2024 — arrives in Abruzzo after a pause in racing due to injury. He’ll be aiming to restart his season here.
“I’ve been dealing with a bit of a knee injury in the last weeks so I’ve been focused on my recovery and I’m looking forward to returning to the start line,” Williams says. “I’m using Abruzzo as a kind of reset button for the season. If everything goes well here, I hope to be back at the Ardennes before gradually building back to peak form for the summer and the Tour de France.”
Israel – Premier Tech at Il Giro d’Abruzzo (Tuesday April 15 – Friday April 18)
Riders: George Bennett (NZL), Roei Edinger (ISR), Imry Faingezicht (ISR), Moritz Kretschy (GER), Fin Tarling (GBR), Kiaan Watts (NZL), Stevie Williams (GBR)
Sports Directors: Ruben Plaza (ESP), Lahav Davidzon (ISR)
