The Aviva Women’s Tour kicks off tomorrow – and we genuinely cannot wait. There are 156 riders on the start list, from 16 different teams – all of them ready and raring to show just how exciting women’s racing is.

Riders, Stages and Jerseys: All You Need to Know About the Women’s Tour

At TWC, we’ll be following the entire race. We’ve teamed up specifically with Wiggle High5, and we’ll be bringing you updates from within the team every day, as well as race reports from each stage and news from other teams.

See all Women’s Tour coverage from 2014, 2015 and 2016 here

This year’s race includes significantly more climbing that last year’s addition – and we’re hoping that might result in some nail biting breakaways and create some interesting time gaps in the General Classification.

Speaking about the challenges ahead, Wiggle High5’s Emma Johansson – who won the first ever stage of the Tour in 2014, said: “I’m always excited about the Aviva Women’s Tour! I loved it from the first moment and the crowds just makes it that little extra!”

She added: “That the course is a bit changed and made harder might make it a totally different type of race than the last editions but we will have to wait and see.  Our team is very strong and we have a rider for all different types of courses and finals so I really look forward to this week of racing!”

“I just love that there are so many people that came to watch and cheer for us last year.” – Lisa Brennauer

Defending champion, Lisa Brennauer of Canyon//SRAM told us she was looking forward to the race, and the British crowds, saying: “I just love that there are so many people that came to watch and cheer for us last year. Including some new routes with more climbs and longer stages than before the tour offers new opportunities and again huge possibilities for thrilling racing.  It’s so nice that all of the towns, communities and schools are involved so much in the tour. It creates a special atmosphere and every rider enjoys being here.”

The race does indeed draw some huge crowds – and we’re so excited to see them come out in their thousands like last year. And why wouldn’t they? Here are just a few sights they’ll see…

All images: SweetSpot