On October 19, 2024, the International Zhanghe Road Cycling Race kicked off in Jingmen, Hubei Province. This exciting event saw participation from 21 teams comprising 116 cyclists representing 17 countries and regions, including Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Malaysia, and China, along with over 700 cycling enthusiasts.
Organized by the China Cycling Association, the race spans from October 19 to 20 and features three main categories: the men’s road race, the men’s city circuit, and a community fitness ride. The community ride aims to promote a more enjoyable cycling experience, encouraging participants to share in the joy and accomplishment that comes from biking while appreciating the scenic views along the Zhanghe River.
The combination of professional competition and inclusive community participation aims to project a new concept of “Enjoy Cycling for All, Fitness for All, Health for All,” blending the excitement of elite racing with the spirit of collective fitness.
The first day of competition featured both the men’s road race and the community fitness ride. Cyclists began their journey from Zhanghe Airport, traversing the picturesque Zhanghe Reservoir before crossing the finish line at Aifeike Town. The men’s road race covered a distance of 137 kilometers, where participants wasted no time, with teams closely monitoring each other in an intense chase.
After a thrilling competition, Carter from Australia’s CCACHE Intercontinental team secured victory with a time of 3 hours, 7 minutes, and 3 seconds. He was closely followed by Carmen from the St. George Intercontinental team, finishing just a fraction of a second behind. Sun Wentao from the Li Ning Star Intercontinental team claimed third place with a time of 3 hours, 7 minutes, and 8 seconds.
According to the organizers, this event marks the first international-level cycling race hosted in the area, and they believe it will significantly boost the development of cycling and fitness activities in the community.
