The five-race Sunshine Cup in Cyprus will happen between February 23 and March 16 and give the opportunity for some cross country pros and motivated amateurs to tune up their fitness with some early season racing. The five category one UCI events will offer racing opportunities for juniors and award prizes of 5,635 Euros for the men and 1,580 Euros for the women.
First up, is a point to point race departing from the village of Tochni and covering some hilly terrain. Rounds two (another point to point) and three (an Olympic-style cross country) are also part of the Afxentia 08 stage race in the Macheras mountains in the heart of Cyprus.
Round four, a cross country, moves to Limassol-Yermasogia, with its small hills and usually warm weather next to the sea.
The last event in the Sunshine Cup happens at Voroklini over a challenging course for a final test prior to the World Cup season. This course is reportedly fast with one long climb at the end and views of the sea.
"I think we are offering a attractive package in beautiful locations, which for the pros also means an adequate module in their preparation [going] into the Olympic season," said organizer Michalis Hadjouannou.
Sunshine Cup 2008 Schedule
February 23: Tochni Village (XCP)
February 29: Mantra-Kionia-Mantra (XCP)
March 2: Mantra tou kampiou (XCO)
March 9: Limassol-Yermasogia (XCO)
March 16: Voroklini (XCP)
