Gia Lai cycling championship 2026 draws strong amateur field ahead of March race

Follow Gia Lai Newspaper on Google News

The 2026 Gia Lai Provincial Open Cycling Club Championship is set to take place on March 28-29, bringing together 85 riders from nine clubs in a competition expected to deliver closely contested races.

logo.jpg

The event, featuring experienced amateur cyclists, is part of efforts to promote mass participation in sport under the “All people exercise following the example of President Ho Chi Minh” movement, while also contributing to activities for National Tourism Year - Gia Lai 2026.

Organisers have divided the competition into three age categories. Riders aged 16-39 and 40-49 will each compete over 35 km, comprising 14 laps of 2.5 km, while cyclists aged 50 and above will race 30 km over 12 laps.

cac-cua-ro-san-sang-khuay-dong-duong-dua-gia-lai-1.jpg
Sharp turns on the racecourse add to the challenge for the cyclists. Photo: H.V

The course runs through central routes, starting at Nguyen Tat Thanh Street and looping through key roundabouts before finishing at the Nguyen Tat Thanh–Hoang Dieu intersection.

Despite relatively flat terrain, participants say the race presents technical challenges. Coastal winds, particularly sudden headwinds, and multiple sharp turns are expected to test riders’ endurance and tactical planning, especially in team events.

In Quy Nhon, local cyclists have intensified preparations in recent days. Team Quy Nhon members have been training daily on routes of 35-45 km, building fitness ahead of the competition.

cac-cua-ro-san-sang-khuay-dong-duong-dua-gia-lai-2.jpg
Members of Team Quy Nhon train diligently every day in preparation for the competition. Photo: H.V

Pham Hong Hai, representing the Quy Nhon Cycling Association, said around 20 riders from various clubs have joined forces to compete. He described the race as an opportunity to gain experience, strengthen connections and promote cycling locally.

Elsewhere, UN 81 Club from Pleiku Ward is entering about 12 cyclists across all three age groups. Despite being established less than two years ago, the club has gained recognition through regular participation in amateur races in neighbouring provinces.

cac-cua-ro-san-sang-khuay-dong-duong-dua-gia-lai-3.jpg
By regularly participating in races inside and outside the province, UN 81 Club is gradually building a vibrant cycling movement in Pleiku. Photo: Provided by the club

Huynh Hien, the club’s deputy head, said the team is smaller than last year due to personal commitments among members. He added that the club’s focus remains on fostering camaraderie, encouraging younger riders and promoting community fitness rather than chasing results.

The championship is expected to highlight both competitive spirit and the growing popularity of cycling in Gia Lai province.

You may be interested

null