The “Red Valleys, Green Mountains · Cycling Taihang” 2025 China Road Cycling Open launched successfully in Xingtai on September 28, bringing together elite riders and cycling enthusiasts for a day of thrilling competition and community celebration.
Riders faced a challenging 54-kilometer course with 772 meters of elevation gain, starting at Baoxiang Valley Cycling Plaza and finishing at Xingtai Grand Canyon. The route passed iconic landmarks including the Anti-Japanese Military and Political University Memorial Hall and Nanyu Bridge, offering stunning views of the Taihang Mountains’ unique Danxia landforms and lush valleys.
In the Men’s Club division, Vitaliy from GUSTO SUPERTEAM clinched victory with a time of 1:21:12. He was followed by Brits Noah and Vladislav Sochinov from Jichi-Rebel Panther. Xu Jiawei of BROSS-CENIT earned the Fighting Spirit Award. The event also awarded distinctive jerseys: Vitaliy kept the red leader’s jersey and green sprint jersey, while Hou Dongyi took the yellow dragon jersey for Best Chinese Rider. The polka dot king of the mountains jersey went to Brits Noah, and Mika from GUSTO SUPERTEAM won the white best young rider jersey.
Beyond the professional race, the event featured a week-long community sports carnival. Activities included the “Galaxy Cup” pickleball tournament, youth pump track challenges, street dance competitions, and family-friendly rides. A cultural market showcased local intangible cultural heritage like Meihuaquan martial arts and traditional iron fireworks displays. Food festivals and red culture tours added a local flavor, inviting visitors to experience Xingtai’s hospitality.
The event also boosted local tourism, with discounts offered at eight scenic spots, 15 restaurants, and numerous hotels—encouraging athletes and visitors to extend their stay and explore the region.
By combining high-level sport with cultural tourism, Xingtai continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier destination for cycling and outdoor adventure.
