Guiyang and Gui'an leg of provincial road cycling race opens

The second Tour of Guizhou International Road Cycling Race opened on Oct 17 at the Minzu Dalianhuan Square in Guanshanhu district, Guiyang.

The opening ceremony featured traditional ethnic performances, including the Wooden Drum Dance, showcasing Guizhou's rich ethnic culture. Riders from 22 professional teams at home and abroad, along with nearly 1,000 hobbyists competing in the recreational cycling event, then set off to begin the 11-day race.

A dancer invites participants to taste local Rosa Roxburghii juice after performing at the opening ceremony. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

Running from Oct 17 to 27, the race features nine stages and, for the first time, covers all nine prefecture-level regions of Guizhou. The route spans 1,205 kilometers with a total elevation gain of 18,135 meters. Professional cyclists from 24 countries and regions are competing.

Cyclists set off from the starting line. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

The opening stage, the Guiyang City-Gui'an New Area Coffee Stage, covers approximately 91 kilometers, starting at Minzu Dalianhuan Square and finishing in the historic town of Qingyan. The route passes through coffee-growing areas, rural trails, and hilly terrain before reaching the ancient town, allowing riders to experience Guizhou's scenic landscapes and cultural heritage along the way.