LHASA, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region's landscapes, high-altitude roads and improving race organization are earning praise from cyclists worldwide, as the 2025 China Xizang Trans-Himalaya International Cycling Race concluded Sunday.

The race, licensed by the UCI and classed as a 2.1 event, brought together 17 teams - three UCI Pro Teams, 13 UCI Continental Teams and one national team. Riders competed over four stages spanning 420.58 kilometers, passing through Nyingchi, Shannan, Lhasa and Xigaze.

Australian UCI commissaire Torr Anthony, who has worked in the sports industry for more than 20 years, said the event showcases Xizang's growing role in global outdoor sports.

"Last year's organization was already outstanding, but I've seen the ambition to make it bigger and stronger. The committee refined many details to reach a higher UCI level," he said, adding that China is creating platforms for young athletes, fostering local professional teams and giving Chinese riders world-class competition at home.

First held in 2018, the race gained UCI 2.2 status in 2023 before being upgraded to 2.1 this year. The route's elevation ranges from 3,000 meters to over 4,000 meters, posing unique physical challenges but offering unmatched scenery.

"I think you don't feel the breathing here. It's more like you just feel there's no oxygen coming to your body," said Adne Van Engelen of the Netherlands. "Still, on the first day, my teammates and I couldn't wait to build our bikes. We wanted to ride. It's beautiful here."

"The nature here is something we don't have in the Netherlands - mountains everywhere," he said. "The organizers did a great job. If I get the chance, I'll come back next year! Chinese races are well-organized with beautiful locations."

Estonia's Laas Martin, winner of the Green Jersey (top sprinter) this year, joined the race last year as well. "Racing here is a challenge because of the altitude, but the natural environment is incredible. I'm happy to see the event upgraded and promoted. I hope I can come back next year."

Cycling in China is also growing. The Chengdu DYC Cycling Team, founded in 2023, has already established a youth training system to develop future talent. Li Chaoyi, a product of the system, won the Red Jersey as the best Greater China rider.

"Outdoor sports started relatively late in China, and there's still a gap in scientific training systems. But the growth in recent years has been remarkable," Li said. "I never thought I'd have the chance to race in Xizang."

According to official data, Lhasa hosted 235 sports events in 2024, attracting 215,200 participants and more than 341 million online and offline spectators, generating an estimated 32 million yuan in economic activity - up 146.15 percent year-on-year. Enditem