Tartu Rattaralli: start returns to city centre, routes get slightly longer
After six years, the start of the long and medium distances at Tartu Rattaralli returns to its traditional location. It is back together with the finish area – right in the heart of the city. “We’re bringing the start back to the city centre to make the event more compact and participant-friendly,” says race director Indrek Kelk. “Due to road construction, we tried several alternatives in recent years, but now we’re happy to return.”
Photo: Adam Illingworth
The ceremonial neutral start in the city centre takes place in waves, each sending up to 500 riders to the course. Timing starts after 4 km with a technical start.
The new start location brings small changes to the beginning of the course, resulting in slightly longer routes – 131 km and 64 km compared to last year’s 126 km and 56 km. Most of the course, however, remains the same, offering the familiar fast roads and scenic South Estonian landscapes.
Tartu Rattaralli also offers a third, shortest distance – 26 km – designed especially with young cyclists in mind. The separate start near Ülenurme, about 7 km from Tartu city centre, allows them to experience the event in full: riding on proper paved roads and finishing in the city centre together with everyone else.
The 44th edition of Tartu Rattaralli – the biggest road cycling event in the region – will take place on June 1 on the roads of Tartu and South Estonia. Riders can choose between 131 km, 64 km, and 26 km distances. The 131 km course is part of the UCI Gran Fondo World Series, offering a chance to qualify for the World Championships held this year in Australia. The program also includes popular children's races and an old school vintage race.
See the full program HERE
Course maps are available HERE
Register HERE