On July 23, Century Square in Huangshan buzzed with excitement for the 2023 "Xi Wang Cup" Mount Huangshan International Road Cycling Race. Yet before the Race, supported by professional referees and specialized event backing, nearly 500 amateur cyclists took to the professional track, reveling in the thrill of a race usually reserved for the pros. This public cycling event themed "Around Huangshan: A Mass Cycling Tour" staged right before the official commencement of the race's third stage, offered cycling aficionados a taste of the international competition's atmosphere, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the fervor and joy of the sport.
The 14-kilometer challenge left participants eager for more, as they hurried back to the finish line to collect their completion medals and certificates, a symbol of their accomplishment and participation. To enhance the event's allure and encourage participation, the organizing committee introduced generous rewards, including tickets to scenic spots in Huangshan, helmets, and smart glasses. These gestures not only rewarded the participants' efforts but also made them feel the committee's profound commitment and passion for promoting sports and fostering a rich, engaging event atmosphere.
"I'm incredibly honored to have experienced firsthand an international road cycling race today, and the cool weather made it perfect for cycling," expressed Hu Wenbin, a cycling enthusiast who rides over ten kilometers every night for relaxation and fitness.
A group of cyclists, unified in their cycling attire and helmets, shared laughs and race stories at the finish line. "He made his move at the last second and passed me", one of them recounted, still buzzing from the competition. "About 12 of us joined today's race. Our love for cycling is tied to the sense of teamwork it fosters. We make it a point to participate in every amateur cycling event in the Huangshan area", Mr. Cheng said, reflecting on the group's passion. He also highlighted the recent boom in road cycling in China, noting its dual benefit of igniting sports enthusiasm and promoting urban development. "Huangshan's renown goes beyond its scenic beauty; its deep historical and cultural roots make it a prime spot for road cycling. Hope more people will be drawn to cycle here."
During the Race, spectators are treated to more than just the thrilling cycling action; they also immerse themselves in a variety of activities, sampled Anhui's distinctive cuisine like Huizhou hairy tofu and Gutang rice cakes, and experienced the allure of Anhui's intangible cultural heritage, including Huizhou paper cutting and Hui ink. This rich cultural tapestry won accolades from cyclists and visitors alike, both from within China and abroad, marveling at Anhui's diverse attractions.
In the fourth year of the Huangshan Sports and Consumption Festival and the Huangshan Cycling Life Festival themed "Pedaling Through Paradise: Celebrating the Spirit of Huangshan Cycling", the event seamlessly integrates the Mount Huangshan race with the quintessence of Anhui culture. This fusion not only enriches the race with unique cultural elements but also serves as a vibrant showcase of Anhui's deep cultural roots. The Mount Huangshan race thus becomes a global ambassador, spreading the spirit of Anhui's rich cultural and sporting life across the world.
Xuan Hongyan, Director of the Huangshan City Sports Bureau, highlighted Huangshan City's extensive experience in hosting international events. "Huangshan City has adeptly used these events not just for organizing professional competitions but also for promoting a 'sports + tourism + culture' model, significantly enhancing the development of the sports industry. This year's sports and consumption festival is full of distinctive Anhui features, and it has involved over 60 merchants and garnered outstanding feedback. The aim is to boost the local economy through the Mount Huangshan race. "
The event calendar, featuring the Mass Cycling Tour, a cyber race, and the fourth Huangshan Sports and Consumption Festival and Huangshan Cycling Life Festival, has spurred a variety of mass participation activities linked to the Mount Huangshan International Road Cycling Race. This initiative has cultivated a vibrant community engagement and support for the race, revitalizing the national fitness movement, elevating the profile of cycling, and contributing significantly to the advancement of road cycling in China.
