An aerial picture shows the start of the cycling open in Yangquan. [Photo/Yangquan Evening News]

On Sept 8, the inaugural "Taihang No 1" Tourist Highway Cycling Open launched in Niangziguan scenic area in Yangquan city, North China's Shanxi province. Over 300 cycling enthusiasts gathered to experience the beauty of the "Taihang No 1" tourist route firsthand.

The race began at the Niangziguan Fortress, covered 43.5 kilometers on Provincial Highway 315, County Road Niangbai Line, and ended at the Pingding Economic Development Zone.

An award ceremony is held for the event winners. [Photo/Yangquan Evening News]

After intense competition, Chinese cyclist Liu Aolin won first place in the Men's Road Open category, finishing in 54 minutes and 46 seconds. Zhang Longwei and Li Dongliang took second and third, respectively. In the Women's Road Open category, a Belarusian cyclist claimed first place with a time of 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 2 seconds, followed by another Belarusian cyclist and Chinese athlete Gao Yanjiao.

The event brought together participants from different regions, highlighted the allure of the Taihang Mountains, and promoted cycling culture in the area.

A scene captured during the fierce cycling competition. [Photo/Yangquan Evening News]