Tour of Tasmania | Stage 4 | SBS Women's League

Heading into Stage 4, Keely Bennett (Meridian Blue p/b 99 Bikes) led Sophie Marr (Praties Cycling Team) and Alli Anderson (Butterfields Ziptrak Racing) by a slim margin, with the difference expected to be made on the final climb of the tour.

A breakaway of 9 riders formed early in the stage, extending their lead to a maximum advantage of just under 6 minutes. However, this was quickly reduced as the peloton prepared for the climb.

The Praties Cycling Team went to work on the climb, using their entire squad to set the pace. They managed a delicate balance, fast enough to drop Bennett, but not so fast that it played into the hands of Anderson, an excellent climber.

In the end, the group stayed together, and 10 riders came to the line for a reduced bunch sprint. All eyes were on Marr, but it was Lauren Bates (Individual) who emerged from the mist to claim an emotional victory. Sophie Marr put in an incredibly strong ride to cross the line second on the stage, securing the overall win in the process. This capped off an excellent weekend for the Victorian, where her lowest stage placing was third.