What happens when intense sports collide with the serene countryside?
On April 19, 2025, the China Mountain Bike League (Huidong, Guangdong) kicked off in spectacular fashion on the tea-covered slopes of Bishan Village's She Ethnic Group hamlet in Pingshan Town. Professional riders, known as "mountain cheetahs," tackled a thrilling 4.3-kilometer mountain-loop course in a high-stakes race that tested their skill and endurance.
As the starting gun fired, a vibrant array of cycling jerseys flashed like rippling rainbows as riders leaned into sharp turns and soared over airborne jumps. Spectators and She villagers watched in awe, holding their breath through every heart-stopping moment, especially as riders braved the ramp, even when saddles rattled loose or tires blew. Mud-caked but unwavering, the competitors exemplified true sportsmanship, pushing through each challenge with determination and grit.
"The track is flawless!" said national team cyclist Lü Xianjing after securing victory, praising the seamless blend of rugged natural terrain and breathtaking cultural vistas that made the race both challenging and captivating.
Bishan Village (碧山村), with its 812-meter-altitude lake, steep gradients, gravel trails, and expansive tea plantations, offers a natural playground for elite mountain biking—ideal for cross-country, downhill, and BMX dirt racing. Capitalizing on its rich homestay culture, the village aims to create a unique "sports meets culture" destination, blending adventure with local heritage.
With China's 15th National Games on the horizon, this grassroots-led elite event captures the nation's growing fitness enthusiasm, fueling Huizhou residents' passion for cycling. As a prominent "cycling hub" in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the city is home to world-renowned manufacturers like Xidesheng, Sava, and Dahon—brands that have made their mark on international podiums.
Reporter | Wu Tianyu
Photo | Liang Weichun
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James, Shen He
