Race director Mick Bennett said: “I am delighted to unveil the route of the 2019 Grand Depart in Suffolk, especially given the amazing response generated by the announcement of our return to the county last month.
“We’re looking forward to visiting Beccles and Stowmarket on a route that will see the race take in a mix of familiar roads to the event, as well as many new towns and villages that have been crying out to feature.”
Organisers announced the course for the opening stage on International Women’s Day, and confirmed that for the second year running the prize fund will match that of the men’s Tour of Britain.
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The Women’s Tour is Britain’s longest-running professional women’s race and is part of the UCI Women’s WorldTour calendar.
Bigla Pro Cycling rider Sophie Wright said: “The Women’s Tour coming to East Anglia this year is exciting for me as a racer, but also inspirational for local cyclists.
“It will definitely encourage more people to jump on their bikes and even have a go at riding the route, as well as providing so many locals with the opportunity to enjoy the spectacle from the roadside.
“I think it will give our sport some great exposure within the region, and I’m really looking forward to seeing that.
“It should be a brilliant day of racing, and hopefully there will be some nice weather to match.”
