The 2024 Snowy Gula Peak Mountain Bike Challenge officially launched on October 2nd in Changdu County, Lhasa, thanks to the efforts of the Tibet Autonomous Region Sports Bureau and the Lhasa Municipal Government.
With over 80 participants on board, including members from amateur clubs across the nation and individual cycling enthusiasts, the competition was intense. Riders competed in several categories: the men’s elite group (45 km), the men’s open group (30 km), and the women’s elite group (30 km). Set against the breathtaking backdrop of altitudes ranging from 4,298 to 4,432 meters, the course featured a cumulative elevation gain of 134 meters over a 15 km lap.
After a thrilling contest, Huang Shihai from the Beijing GDR team took home the championship title in the men’s elite group, while Dawa Zhuza of the Tibet Yache team emerged victorious in the men’s open group. The women’s elite group saw Gao Yanjiao from the SAVA-KAPVOE women’s team clinch first place. Additionally, the top organizing teams, including the Sunshine Team, Friends of Lhasa Team, and the United Team of Disabled and Able-bodied Athletes, were recognized for their outstanding organization. Individual awards celebrating sportsmanship went to Sha Tiezhu, Basang Luobu, and Baima Yangji.
This year’s Snowy Gula Peak Mountain Bike Challenge is an exciting part of the ongoing series of events for the 21st China Tibet Mountaineering Conference. Cyclists navigated a course that highlighted the region’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, with a route that included highland gravel roads, meadows, lakes, and pastoral areas. This event not only showcases the beauty of Tibet but also represents a commitment to green living, environmental awareness, health, and vitality, further fostering the development of cycling sports in the region.
