Tiffany Cromwell Clinches Victory in Bolero Gravel World Series

Australian cyclist Tiffany Cromwell emerged victorious in the Bolero race of the UCI Gravel World Series, making it her latest triumph in the series. Cromwell seized the lead with a powerful attack in the final three kilometers and crossed the finish line unaccompanied. Her teammate, Pauliena Rooijakkers, secured a commendable sixth place but finished a further nine minutes behind.

Due to her nationality, Cromwell was deemed ineligible to compete in the European Continental Championships and the Belgian National Championships, which were held concurrently. Despite this setback, Cromwell capitalized on her knowledge of the fast-paced course and strategically positioned herself during the early gravel sectors. Eventually, a group of four riders emerged as contenders for the victory and podium finishes. Cromwell skillfully managed her pacing and positioning alone and waited for the ideal moment to make her move.

“I can’t actually claim the title… It’s pretty cool to win… It was a fun race and course and had a great atmosphere around it. It was a stacked field, and to be able to beat some big names gives me confidence ahead of next week’s gravel world championships,” Cromwell said, although jokingly expressing her disappointment at not being able to claim the official title.

Reflecting on her performance, Cromwell added, “I had nothing to lose today. I saw an opportunity to attack close to the finish, and then when I had a gap, it was all in to keep going and hold it to the finish line. I just enjoyed racing my bike today.”

Cromwell will be among the four CANYON//SRAM Racing riders competing in the UCI Gravel World Championships in Veneto, Italy, scheduled for Saturday, 7 October. Her teammates, Pauliena, Kasia Niewiadoma, and Soraya Paladin, will also participate in the women’s race.