Cyclists from 20 teams from China and other countries race in the 3rd Tour of Taiyuan, Oct 15. [Photo provided to goshanxi.com.cn]
The 3rd Tour of Taiyuan, a three-day international road cycling race, kicked off on Oct 15, with more than 1,000 professional and amateur cycling enthusiasts fired up with passion.
This year's event has attracted 12 international teams, with riders from 11 countries including the Netherlands, Poland, Egypt, Thailand, Iran, Mongolia, and Romania, highlighting the increasing diversity of participating teams.
Winners of Stage 1 of the 3rd Tour of Taiyuan celebrate on the podium. [Photo provided to goshanxi.com.cn]
The race on the first day covered 110 kilometers, featuring two sprint points and one uphill section. After nearly 3 hours of competition, Tomasz Budzinski from Poland emerged victorious in Stage 1, clocking in at 2 hr 47 min 53 sec, putting him at the top of the overall rankings and sprint points table, while his teammate Marcin Budzinski claimed the top spot in the uphill section. Xu Xinling leads the Chinese riders in the general rankings.
Cyclists race past an ancient structure in Taiyuan, Oct 15. [Photo provided to goshanxi.com.cn]
The road cycling race not only serves as a sports event but also showcases the historical and cultural charm, modern vitality, and rural landscapes of Taiyuan.
"I was impressed by the majestic ancient architecture in Wuyi Square. I have a great interest in the city's history, and I hope to explore its historical sites during the race," said a cyclist from the Netherlands.
"Taiyuan has a pleasant climate, providing favorable conditions for the race. I really enjoy riding on the East-West Mountain tourist road, where the air is fresh and the scenery is fantastic. It feels like cycling in a natural oxygen bar and brings immense happiness," said a Thai participant.
Cyclists race on a tourist road lined with trees in Taiyuan, Oct 15. [Photo/Taiyuan Evening News]
On the sidelines of the race, a series of cycling-themed activities are ongoing, including a cycling industry seminar, a bicycle product fair, an amateur group road cycling race, and a children's balance bike race, igniting a wave of enthusiasm for fitness among the public.