cyclist friends, dont just focus on tour de france, the lake race is about to start!
The Tour of Qinghai Lake International Road Cycling Race, abbreviated as the 'Tour of Qinghai Lake,' is the fourth largest road cycling race in the world, following the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, and Vuelta a España.
The 'Tour of Qinghai Lake' has been held since 2002, taking place annually between June and August in the Qinghai Lake region of Qinghai Province, as well as neighboring Gansu Province and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Approved by the Union Cycliste Internationale, the Tour of Qinghai Lake is classified as a 2.HC race, making it Asia's premier multi-day road cycling race and the highest-altitude international road cycling race in the world. It is also the largest, most participated, and highest prize money international road cycling event in China.
The highest altitude in the world, Asia's top and largest road cycling event.
China's largest, most participated, and highest prize money international road cycling event.
Scientifically designed race routes, top-notch competitors, ensuring high competition level and spectator enjoyment.
Both participants and spectators can enjoy the stunning natural scenery of beautiful Qinghai, colorful Gansu, and magical Ningxia.
Race dates: July 16 - July 30
Starting point: Xining, Qinghai Province - Baiyin, Gansu Province
Race distance: Total 3631 km (1921 km of which are competitive)
Regions covered: Xining, Haidong, Haibei, Hainan in Qinghai Province; Lanzhou, Linxia, Tianshui, Pingliang, Baiyin in Gansu Province; Yinchuan, Zhongwei in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.
Teams: 23
Participants: Covering five continents, 17 countries and regions, athletes from 36 countries.
Prize money: The highest prize money international road cycling event in China, with prizes totaling 1 million USD.
1. What is a 2.HC race?
2.HC is a classification for road cycling races, allowing only UCI professional teams, continental professional teams, continental teams, and national teams to participate, ensuring high competition quality.
2. What does the total distance of 3631 km mean?
3. Is there anything special about the leader's jerseys in the Tour of Qinghai Lake?
In addition to the well-known yellow jersey for the overall leader, polka dot jersey for the king of the mountains, and green jersey for the sprint leader, the Tour of Qinghai Lake organizing committee has introduced a blue jersey. Similar to the yellow jersey, it is awarded based on overall individual performance but is only given to riders from Asian countries, hence called the 'Best Asian Rider Blue Jersey.'
4. What is the schedule for this year's Tour of Qinghai Lake?
This year's Tour of Qinghai Lake spans 14 days, with 13 days of racing and one rest day. The race starts in Xining, Qinghai Province, and ends in Baiyin, Gansu Province. Key regions covered include Xining, Haidong, Haibei, Hainan in Qinghai Province; Lanzhou, Linxia, Tianshui, Pingliang, Baiyin in Gansu Province; Yinchuan, Zhongwei in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.
5. Will roads be closed during the Tour of Qinghai Lake? How long will they be closed?
Yes, roads will be closed, but not for the entire day. Roads will be closed for clearing before the race starts and reopened after the cyclists pass, causing minimal disruption. If you encounter a road closure, it's best to stop and watch the race unless you have a very tight travel schedule.
6. Will accommodation be tight during the Tour of Qinghai Lake?
Yes, accommodation will be very tight. This is mainly due to the peak tourist season, with large crowds everywhere. Therefore, it's crucial to book your accommodation early. If your travel coincides with the race, your room might be temporarily adjusted (note: participants stay in three-star or higher hotels).
7. Where are the best spots around Qinghai Lake to watch the race?
To watch the race, you should find a good spot where you can get a close view of the cyclists. The best spots are along the Jiayi Temple - Erlangjian section, where you can see the lake and the sea of rapeseed flowers up close, or find a small building for an overhead view. Another great spot is the Qilian Datongshu Pass, where cyclists will climb over the 4120m pass after more than 100 km of uphill riding, making it the perfect place to witness the king of the mountains and the sprinters showcasing their downhill skills.
8. What are some good scenic spots along the Tour of Qinghai Lake route?
Apart from the city circuit races, most of the route offers stunning scenery, so there's no need to think about specific scenic spots—everywhere is beautiful! If you can drive or ride along the route, the experience will be even better.
That's all for this year's Tour of Qinghai Lake!
Cycling enthusiasts, don't get too anxious.
Now, let's talk about some tips for cycling around Qinghai Lake.
For ordinary cyclists, we can only be the most dedicated spectators of the 'Tour of Qinghai Lake.' However, after the race, the straight asphalt roads of the plateau will be your playground.
If cycling the 318 is a test of willpower and endurance for cyclists, then cycling around Qinghai Lake is a dual experience of enjoyment and challenge.
Summer is the most beautiful time on the plateau, with the dreamlike Qinghai Lake, blue skies, clouds within reach, hospitable Tibetan friends, golden rapeseed flowers, vast grasslands with herds of cattle and sheep, and mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets creating a poetic and picturesque scene that invites close contact.
Such scenery cannot be fully appreciated on a one-day tour or from a fast-moving car. It requires us to slow down, open our eyes wide, and feel it with our hearts.
Cycling around Qinghai Lake is the best way to experience its beauty from all angles, train your willpower, enjoy a unique journey, and experience the local Tibetan customs. In short, it's a journey of cycling, traveling, and self-discovery.
Preparation: Season and Gear
The road around Qinghai Lake is about 360 km long and takes about 4 days to complete. Each section has its own scenic spots, with accommodation and dining options around the lake providing convenience for cyclists. The best time for cycling around Qinghai Lake is from May to October, with the best scenery in July and August. However, be sure to avoid the race period.
Bicycle (can be rented in Xihai Town), sunscreen (sunscreen, windproof glasses, magic scarf, sun hat, etc.), Vaseline (to reduce friction injuries), emergency food, emergency power supply, etc.Preparation: Road Analysis
The roads around Qinghai Lake are divided into four: East Lake Road, National Highway 109, West Lake Road, and National Highway 315. East Lake Road and West Lake Road have better scenery, while the two national highways have more large vehicles, so safety should be a priority.
Road sections with views of Qinghai Lake: Jiangxigou-Heimahe section and Heimahe-Shinahe section offer views of Qinghai Lake, while other sections are farther from the lake.
East Lake Road: This section has many ups and downs, making it more challenging to ride. The scenery is mostly desert, but there are also rapeseed flowers.
West Lake Road: The 41 km section from Heimahe Township to Shinahe Township on West Lake Road is the most beautiful part of the entire Qinghai Lake route! Take your time and enjoy it.
National Highway 109: Following National Highway 109 westward, this road is known as the 'Heavenly Road.' The southern route of Qinghai Lake is extremely straight, and you will see many self-driving cars from North China heading to Tibet.
Scenic spots along the route
Qinghai Lake is very large, with many scenic areas far apart, such as Erlangjian, Bird Island, and Sand Island. There are also some great spots nearby, like Riyue Mountain, Daotang River, Heimahe, and Chaka Salt Lake. Cycling around the lake offers a variety of different landscapes.