Fouche and Burnett lead contenders for Tour of Southland 2024

James Fouche and Josh Burnett are the top contenders for the 68th Tour of Southland, starting Sunday. Fouche rides for Euskaltel–Euskadi, while Burnett represents Burgos BH. Both previously raced for the now-defunct Black Spoke team. This year features an extended fourth stage with a 10km climb at the Remarkables, including a gravel section. Burnett, who won the Gravel and Tar event last summer, is prepared for the challenge and expects it to be tougher than previous climbs. The race also welcomes back the Japanese national endurance team, now with six riders. It will honor Ken "Laz" Lasenby, a notable figure in New Zealand cycling, with a special jersey for the over-35 category.