On October 13, 2024, the Hubei Dangyang Phoenix Mountain Mountain Bike Race officially kicked off, attracting over 200 mountain biking competitors from across China, including participants from Henan, Hunan, and Jiangxi, to showcase their skills in the scenic orange groves of Dangyang.

At 8 AM, the sound of the starting gun echoed through the air, propelling riders off the starting line like arrows. From the viewpoint atop Phoenix Mountain, spectators were treated to a thrilling sight as the cyclists navigated through the orange groves, energized by the cheers of onlookers lining the course.

This year’s race featured a 5-kilometer loop, comprising three categories: the men’s middle-aged group (20 kilometers), the women’s group (10 kilometers), and the men’s youth group (25 kilometers). The champions of the event were Chen Xiangyuan for the men’s middle-aged group, He Chong for the women’s group, and Yao Hao for the men’s youth group.

He Chong, a competitor from Hainan, expressed her enthusiasm for the experience: “This is my first time in Dangyang, and I frequently participate in cross-country cycling. I really enjoy the trails here. Since it’s harvest season, the oranges lining the course are incredibly tempting, and the crowd’s support is uplifting.”

According to the event organizers, the Phoenix Mountain racecourse is the only professional mountain biking trail in Hubei province. To prepare for this event, the committee made adjustments to many technical challenges and obstacles on the course, striking a balance between professional standards and an enjoyable riding experience for the participants.

Dangyang, known as a significant historical area from the Three Kingdoms period, is famous for tales of Zhao Zilong’s victory at Changban Slope, Zhang Yide’s shout that broke the Dangyang Bridge, and Guan Yunchang’s divine appearance at Yuling Mountain. In recent years, Dangyang has placed a strong emphasis on developing its sports capabilities and has hosted a number of high-level sporting events.