Zhejiang Great Bay Area Cycling Open to kick off in June

The sports bureau of Zhejiang has introduced another international cycling event in the province after the Tour of Taihu Lake.

The 2019 Zhejiang Great Bay Area Cycling Open will begin in early June in four cities across the province, the bureau announced at a press conference on Thursday.

Apart from elite domestic and overseas riders, more than 5000 amateurs are also expected to participate in the event.

Members of Zhejiang Sports Bureau and event organizers pose for pictures as they annouce the schedule of the 2019 Zhejiang Great Bay Area Cycling Open in Hangzhou on May 9, 2019. [Photo provided to China Plus]

The first two races in Hangzhou and Wenzhou, which starts on June 2, will see professional riders compete in different divisions, with total prize money of 460 thousand yuan, or 67 thousand US dollars.

The cities of Yuyao and Ningbo will focus on public participation with the races starting on June 23.

Organized by Mitime Sports, which also operates golf's Volvo China Open and the China Formula Grand Prix, the Great Bay Area Open is the first major cycling event in Zhejiang to last one month.

Local authorities say it will help promote the sport in the region and present the beautiful landscapes and culture of the province.