Chengdu’s International Cycling Fan Race Kicks Off, Reinforcing the City’sCycling Capital Status
Chengdu, China – The 2024 China Chengdu Tianfu Greenway International Cycling Fan Race kicked off in Wenjiang on September 20th, with over 3,000 cyclists taking to thescenic North Forest Greenway loop. This marked the 51st stop in the 15-year history of the event, further solidifying Chengdu’sreputation as a Cycling Capital and a vibrant hub for international exchange.
Since its inception in 2010, the Chengdu Tianfu Greenway International Cycling Fan Race, a unique event initiated by Chengdu, has seamlessly integrated cycling with theTianfu Greenway, China’s longest urban greenway. The event has hosted 50 races, becoming a renowned cycling brand in Chengdu with national influence.
The sprawling Tianfu Greenway, now exceeding 7,000kilometers, has provided ample space for cycling enthusiasts, contributing to a significant increase in the city’s cycling population. Chengdu boasts over 2 million cyclists, with daily shared bike rides exceeding 2.2 million, ranking first nationwide. In 2023, the China Cycling Association bestowed upon Chengdu the prestigious title of China’s Model City for Cycling Sports.
Chengdu’s dedication to cycling extends beyond recreational activities. The city has invested heavily in professional cycling, nurturing talent and hosting major events. David Lappartient, President of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), remarked on his deep appreciation for Chengdu’s passion for cycling.
We will work with Chengdu to transform the Tianfu Greenway International Cycling Race into a top-tier domestic and world-class professional event, contributing to Chengdu’s development as a world-renowned sporting city, said Sun Weimin, Vice President and Secretary-General of the China Cycling Association.
Chengdu’scommitment to cycling has yielded impressive results. Local athlete Zhang Meng and her teammate Xu Xiaoyan secured a gold medal in the Madison race at the first National Youth Games, marking a significant milestone for Chengdu cycling. Subsequent victories by Kang Yixiang, Deng Yawen, and Lin Shuotang have further solidified Chengdu’s dominance inthe sport.
In 2024, 18-year-old Deng Yawen, a native of Chengdu, achieved international recognition, winning gold at the Paris Games. The newly formed Chengdu Continental Cycling Team, based in Chengdu, has consistently achieved success in national competitions. At the recent 12thPoyang Lake International Cycling Race, the team secured three gold, three silver, and three bronze medals, setting a new record and claiming the overall championship.
At the opening ceremony of the Wenjiang leg of the 2024 China Chengdu Tianfu Greenway International Cycling Fan Race, Xiong Xin, Deputy Secretary-Generalof the China Cycling Association, expressed his vision for the future.
We aim to collaborate with Chengdu, leveraging its cycling resources, to organize more cycling events that align with Chengdu’s cultural heritage and urban character. This will bolster the city’s ‘Cycling Capital’ brand and contribute to its transformation from a worldsporting city to a world sports city, said Xiong.
The 51st stop of the event, themed Enjoy the Greenway, Ride Towards the Future, showcased Chengdu’s Cycling Capital charm to the world. The two-day event featured various categories, including team cycling, road cycling elite, women’s, and youth, catering to diverse cycling needs.
On the opening day, Wenjiang District launched five new cycling routes, connecting historical landmarks and scenic landscapes through the winding greenway. The event also included a joint effort between Chengdu and Chongqing, with a 6-kilometer cycling and 4-kilometer walkingevent for government agencies.
A participant from the Chongqing Banan District team shared his experience, highlighting the convenience of the Chengdu-Chongqing high-speed rail, which allows him to frequently visit Chengdu with his family for cycling excursions. He expressed his admiration for the city’s beautiful environment and the enjoyable experience of cyclingalong the ring road greenway.
As Chengdu gears up for the 2025 World Games, the North Forest Greenway, the venue for the current cycling fan race, has organized activities showcasing various World Games sports, including frisbee, softball, rugby, breakdancing, tug-of-war, dragon boatracing, and kayaking. This initiative aims to provide citizens and athletes with a glimpse into the upcoming Games, demonstrating Chengdu’s commitment and preparations.
The 2024 China Chengdu Tianfu Greenway International Cycling Fan Race stands as a testament to Chengdu’s dedication to cycling, its commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, and itsambition to become a world-renowned sporting city. With its vibrant cycling culture and impressive infrastructure, Chengdu is poised to continue its journey as a leading cycling destination, attracting enthusiasts from across the globe.
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