On Sunday, the pro women’s peloton descend on Italy to take on the biggest stage race in their calendar – the Giro Rosa.

Although overshadowed in the media by the men’s Tour de France, the Giro Rosa showcases the biggest names in women’s road racing. As it’s the only women’s stage race the UCI allow to run for over a week, it’s a huge deal for the riders.

Formerly known as the Giro Donne, this year’s Giro Rosa runs from 30 June to 7 July. Over the 8 days, the women’s peloton will visit seven regions of Italy, covering a grueling 778.5km.

Traditionally the race has been 10 days long, but due to a clash with the Mediterranean Games, where some riders will race, it’s been cut to 8 days. Although shorter, organisers Erre 4, lead by race director, Giuseppe Rivolta assured the riders:

My staff and I will do our best so that the Giro Rosa 2013 will not disappoint people’s expectations.

In it to win it – the contenders

Nineteen teams, with 8 riders each will take part in the Giro Rosa, this differs to all other races in the season where teams start with no more than six.

Included on the start line is British-based women’s team – Wiggle Honda. With 2010 and 2011 world road race champion Giorgia Bronzini competing in front of a home crowd – will that give her the edge to win for Wiggle Honda?

The obvious favourite on the start line is defending champion – Marianne Vos (Rabobank-Liv/giant). With the last two editions under her belt, she will be keen to make it three in a row in Italy.

Another team to watch is Specialized-lululemon, in particular Evelyn Stevens, who not only finished third in the 2012 edition but more recently won the Giro del Trentino.

British riders tackling the Giro Rosa include Emma Trott and Lucy Martin for Boels-Dolmans, Sharon Laws for Lotto Belisol and Katie Colclough for Specialized-lululemon.

Will Vos dominate and bring home a third straight victory?

Proving that pro women’s road racing is increasing in popularity, there will be 50 minutes of coverage on RAI tv every night. Visit RAI tv’s website for more information and to watch the highlights.

For more information and to follow the race, visit the official Giro Rosa website and their Twitter and Facebook pages.