Symbol of Vietnam-China Friendship

The 6th International Cycling Race “One Race, Two Countries” in 2025 – an annual sporting event – ​​is not only highly professional but also a vibrant symbol of friendship and cross-border cooperation between Lao Cai province (Vietnam) and Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan province (China).

Elevated status with the Red River Festival - Lao Cai 2025

With its significantly enhanced scale, especially when integrated into the Red River Festival - Lao Cai 2025 activities, the 6th International Cycling Race "One Race, Two Countries" has generated great appeal, evidenced by impressive numbers.

As of November 15th, over 200 Vietnamese athletes had registered to participate, confirming that this is one of the most attractive and unique events in the region, where passionate rides connect two countries and two cultures.

Since its inaugural season in 2017, the "One Race, Two Countries" International Cycling Race has quickly established its own unique position and brand. In 2025, the tournament will mark a special milestone as it becomes a key highlight in the series of events of the Red River Festival.

The international cycling race "One Race, Two Countries" has made a big impact, receiving enthusiastic support from the people of Vietnam and China. (Photo: Archival material)

Mr. Dang Thanh Tung, Deputy Director of the Lao Cai Provincial Sports Training and Competition Center, emphasized: The tournament has been maintained by Lao Cai province in coordination with Honghe Prefecture (China) for five seasons. From the very first tournament in 2017, it created a great sensation, receiving enthusiastic support from the people of Vietnam and China. This year, the tournament is part of the Red River Festival - Lao Cai 2025 activities, so its significance has been greatly enhanced, not only as a sporting event but also as a bridge to promote culture and tourism, and strengthen lasting friendship.

Following the usual rotational arrangement, the sixth season in 2025 will be hosted by the Red River Delta region, with Lao Cai province playing a coordinating role. Preparations have been systematically underway since the beginning of the year, ensuring close coordination between relevant units of both countries.

Lao Cai province has widely disseminated information to provinces and cities nationwide, creating optimal conditions for athletes to register and participate. This close coordination ensures that logistics, especially the cross-border immigration and customs procedures for athletes, proceed smoothly and safely.

Wheels of Friendship

The international cycling race “One Race, Two Countries” will take place over three days (November 28-30, 2025) in Lao Cai province (Vietnam) and Hekou County, Honghe Prefecture (China). The tournament will apply the latest rules and regulations issued by the International Cycling Federation, ensuring professionalism and fairness. This year, the race will continue to feature two categories: mountain biking and road cycling.

Accordingly, the off-road racing event will take place on November 29th in Hekou County. Athletes will compete in individual and friendly team events (men and women) with a total distance of 24 km.

The road bike race, held on the morning of November 30th, featured a unique cross-border stage. The total distance was 80 km, with approximately 10 km in China and 70 km in Vietnam. The race started from Bac Son Ethnic Square in Ha Khau district, passed through the Lao Cai International Border Gate, and finished at Bac Son Administrative Square.

The athletes were divided into age groups: 16-35, 36-49, and 50-65 for men, and 16-39 and 40-65 for women, to ensure a balance of physical fitness and competitive skills.

The tournament's appeal also stems from the determination and passion of the athletes themselves. Even though there are still more than ten days until the official competition, the athletes' training and preparation are incredibly vibrant.

The athletes are actively training in preparation for the 6th International Cycling Race “One Race, Two Countries” in 2025.

Athlete Giang Thi Chi from the Lao Cai Provincial Sports Training and Competition Center shared: "I wake up at 5 a.m. every morning to train my physical fitness. In the afternoon, I run 60-70 km of long-distance running. Such a demanding training schedule requires immense perseverance. Besides professional training, I also try to maintain my health to have the best physical condition to participate in the competition, aiming for the highest possible achievement to prove my abilities."

Besides young athletes, the tournament also brings together people who share a passion for cycling, regardless of age.

Mr. Pham Van Quang, 62 years old, residing in Lao Cai ward, is a living testament to the timeless spirit of sportsmanship.

Mr. Quang shared: "I ride bicycles out of passion. This year's international cycling race, 'One Race, Two Countries,' is an event linked to the Red River Festival - Lao Cai 2025, so I'm even more excited. Every day I ride for 30-40 minutes each morning and afternoon to improve my technique and physical fitness, determined to compete in the entire race and achieve a high ranking. This is not just a competition, but also an opportunity to socialize and meet fellow enthusiasts from both countries."

Mr. Pham Van Quang next to his bicycle, worth over 100 million VND.

The greatest value of the race lies not only in the competitive achievements, but also in its ability to contribute to strengthening comprehensive cooperation and friendship between Lao Cai province (Vietnam) and Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan province (China). The race serves as a bridge to strengthen solidarity and cultural exchange between the people of the two countries, while also actively promoting the image of Lao Cai as a friendly and hospitable tourist destination .

Through this event, Lao Cai has the opportunity to strengthen its tourism promotion and marketing efforts, and boost local socio-economic development. At the same time, the tournament also contributes to strongly encouraging the sports and physical training movement in the province, especially the development of cycling.

Mr. Pham Van Quang is determined to achieve a high ranking at the 6th International Cycling Race "One Race, Two Countries" in 2025.

With thorough preparation, strong cooperation, and the enthusiastic participation of hundreds of athletes, the 6th International Cycling Race “One Race, Two Countries” in 2025 promises to be a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on athletes and visitors from all over the world.

Source: https://baolaocai.vn/bieu-tuong-huu-nghi-viet-trung-post886908.html