Pingtan, located off the coast of Fujian province and recognized as China's second international tourism island after Hainan, continues to shine as a hub for cross-Straits cultural exchange and adventure tourism. Over the weekend, the island hosted two major cycling events, drawing more than 1,400 riders from both sides of the Taiwan Straits.

On April 26, the 2025 Fifth Cross-Straits Workers' Leisure Cycling Event kicked off, attracting around 900 cycling enthusiasts. The event featured two categories: the Full Challenge Group and the Half Leisure Group. The Full Challenge Group offered a scenic yet demanding 108-kilometer loop around Pingtan Island, with multiple steep climbs and descents. The Half Leisure Group provided a more relaxed 68-kilometer ride.

Throughout the course, riders weaved through picturesque coastal highways and fishing villages. All participants were granted free access to Pingtan's scenic spots with their race credentials.

The following day, April 27, the 2025 Ninth Cross-Straits Workers' Cycling Race concluded, attracting over 500 competitive cyclists. The race offered three divisions: Men's Road Elite, Men's Road Master, and Women's Group.

The Men's Road Elite Group started promptly at 8:30 a.m., with the peloton surging forward with explosive momentum. After two intense hours, the debutant MILO team clinched the Men's Elite title. "I've been in the race since 2014, but never managed a good finish," said Su Ye, the Men's Elite winner. "Today's weather was perfect, the course was clean and smooth, and I finally seized the chance to sprint ahead for the victory."

In the Men's Road Master Group, Taiwan's Xiao Shixin showcased sharp tactics and superb skills to secure the top spot. "This was my first time going solo," Xiao shared. "When an opportunity to break away appeared, I went for it with everything I had. The weather was great with little wind, making the ride very enjoyable."

The Women's Group started five minutes after the Men's Master Group, attracting a strong turnout of female cyclists. Champion Li Sishan credited her preparation and team coordination for the win. "This is my second time racing in Pingtan," Li said. "Familiarity with the course helped, but ultimately, it was the long-term training and the seamless teamwork today that made the victory possible."