S13 Ep5: KM0: Never Mind The Balearics – Trofeo Calvià

Jan 29, 2025

In this lively discussion, cycling journalist Rob Hatch shares his insights on the Challenge Mallorca. He and Lionel Birnie delve into the event's history and highlight Mallorca's stunning landscapes. They explore the quirky influence of sports directors on race dynamics and reminiscing about past thrilling moments. With anecdotes about local culture, from cuisine to the historic charm of Valdemosa, the conversation is a delightful mix of humor and nostalgia that captures the essence of cycling in this beautiful part of the world.

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INSIGHT

Unique Race Format

The Challenge Mallorca is a stage race but not a stage race, it consists of five one-day races.
Riders can participate in selected races, making it ideal for early-season training and competition.

INSIGHT

Early Exclusivity

The Challenge Mallorca was initially exclusive to Spanish teams for the first three years.
Foreign riders could only participate if they were members of Spanish teams before 1995.

INSIGHT

Resurgence of the Race

The Challenge Mallorca has seen resurgence in recent years, boosted by sponsorship from Iles Balears.
Increased coverage and live TV broadcasts enhance the race's visibility and storytelling.

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Lionel Birnie is in Mallorca for the five-day Challenge Mallorca, a stage race that's not a stage race. In this opening episode of KM0, recorded at the Trofeo Calvià, Lionel and Rob Hatch discuss the history of the race and Lionel sees two very different sides to the island.

The series title – Never Mind The Balearics, This Is The Cycling Podcast – is inspired by the classic 1977 Sex Pistols punk album of a similar name.

Now it's over to Lionel and Rob for the Hipster's Tour Down Under...

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