The Queen of the Mountains award or QOM is the equivalent of the King of the Mountains but for the top female climber. Women receive points for their first ascents up specific climbs, and the leader sports a distinctive jersey.
In women’s stage races and in the mixed events, QOM segments range from Category 4 to very steep climbs. Women earn QOM points for finishing first to the top of the hills in the fastest possible way for their weight. Teams may send climbers in breakaways to score QOM points. Winning the QOM competition enhances a rider’s profile as a good climber and secures sponsors and publicity for her, even when not in the overall lead.
