Gigante Claims Historic Podium Finish at Giro d’Italia Donne

Australian cyclist Sarah Gigante has secured third place overall at the Giro d’Italia Donne. This marks a historic podium with Gigante becoming the first Australian woman in over two decades to stand on the general classification podium at one of cycling’s Grand Tours.

The 23-year-old completed the final stage in Sardinia to clinch third behind race winner Elisa Longo Borghini (Italy) and runner-up Juliette Labous (France). Gigante’s performance marked a significant breakthrough for Australian women’s road cycling on the global stage.

Sarah Gigante claims Queen of the Mountains jersey

Riding for AG Insurance-Soudal, Gigante built her podium position with a strong showing in the mountainous eighth stage, where she finished third. Consistency throughout the 10-stage race proved key, as the Melbourne native maintained her composure against a competitive international field.

Speaking after the final stage, Gigante described the achievement as “a dream come true” and thanked her team for their support throughout the event.

“I’ve worked so hard for this, and to be on the podium at a Grand Tour is something I’ve always aspired to,” she said.

A Historic Podium

Gigante’s podium finish is the first by an Australian woman at the Giro since Kathy Watt won the event in 1999. It also marks the best general classification result by an Australian in any of the women’s Grand Tours since that time.

Her success comes amid increasing momentum for Australian women’s cycling, with several riders gaining international prominence across WorldTour teams and major stage races.

A Platform for Paris

The result provides a strong foundation for Gigante heading into the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where she is expected to compete in both the road race and individual time trial events.

Cycling Australia’s performance director praised the result, noting that Gigante’s endurance and tactical discipline across a challenging course bode well for Olympic competition.

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