October 11, 2025 — The second stage of the 2025 VAUDE Tianlu Cycling Challenge pushed riders through 170 kilometers across the Tibetan Plateau, where altitude and exhaustion proved more punishing than any climb.
From Freezing Dawn to Scorching Noon
Riders set off from the Chayang Co Lake campsite at 4,800 meters into a biting -4°C morning. Within hours, the high-altitude sun pushed temperatures to 20°C, creating a drastic shift from numb fingers to sweating brows. Many described the stage as mentally and physically draining—a true test of will over wattage.
The route took cyclists on a 5-kilometer climb around the Manla Reservoir, up to a 5,046-meter pass, followed by a long descent to 3,800 meters and flat roads to Shigatse.
Men’s Race: A Solo Chase and a New Leader
Due to external conditions, riders started individually in reverse order of their Stage 1 rankings. Defending champion Tursunjiang Buerlike (TC130) started last and launched a fierce chase, but spent over 160 kilometers riding alone after failing to catch the lead group. He finished third, visibly drained.
“I barely slept last night because of the altitude, and fighting the wind alone took everything I had,” Tursunjiang admitted. “I’m not sure how I’ll hold up over the next two stages.”
The stage win went to Jiang Village Luo (TC276), who used his climbing strength to catch early leader Chilie Nima (TC266). After a back-and-forth battle, Luo finished 1 minute 58 seconds ahead, claiming the stage.
Women’s Race: Fatigue Alters the Finish
Independent rider Zhou Huiqian (TC193) led the women’s race early but faded after 40 kilometers due to sleep deprivation. She was caught by DYN Helmet teammates Chen Meiyi (TC268) and Peng Xingyue (TC267), who worked together to finish first and second.
“I was just too tired—on the flats, I had nothing left,” Zhou said after crossing the line in third.
Teamwork and Tenacity
The Kailas Team adopted a collaborative strategy, riding as a unit to share effort and support. “We slept with oxygen last night,” said rider Liu Huan (TC269). “Today was about surviving together.”
Other riders also fought through physical struggles. VAUDE team rider Samuel Millar Clark (TC262) finished fifth despite suffering from altitude sickness overnight. Former pro rider Liang Junrong (TC258) of Hong Kong described the event as harder than professional training.
Two riders were forced to withdraw after being hospitalized due to severe altitude sickness.
Looking Ahead: The Longest Stage Awaits
Stage 3, set for October 11, will cover the race’s longest distance and highest total elevation gain—approximately 2,200 meters of climbing from Shigatse to Dingri County. As riders push closer to Everest, the thin air and accumulating fatigue will continue to separate those who endure from those who excel.
