On Sunday, Sölden will once again become the center of the international cycling world as the 45th Ötztal Cycle Marathon gets underway. Widely regarded as one of the toughest cycling marathons in the Alps, the race will see 4,000 cyclists take on a demanding 227-kilometer course with 5,500 meters of elevation gain. The route leads riders over the Kühtaisattel, Brenner Pass, Jaufen Pass, and Timmelsjoch before returning to the finish line in Sölden again. The field once again promises world-class racing and an exciting battle for the prestigious victory. Defending champion Daniel Federspiel (AUT) will be looking to repeat his success from last year, but faces strong competition. Among the best-known names are Jack Burke (CAN), Stefano Cecchini (ITA), Alban Lakata (AUT), Anton Palzer (GER), and the former Italian ski legends Werner Heel and Manfred Mölgg. In the women’s field, Janine Meyer (GER) returns as the defending champion and a three-time winner. Among those challenging Meyer are last year´s runner-up Eva Schien and the local rider Belinda Holzer (AUT).