Beijing Olympic circuit considered challenging and spectacular

The UCI is calling the 2008 Olympic Games circuit in Beijing, "The most amazing route in Olympic history." The UCI road coordinator Philippe Chevallier and his technical adviser Charly Mottet visited Beijing between May 7 and 13 to inspect preparations for the Olympic road events (road race and time trial).

Chevallier believes the cycling circuit for the 2008 Olympic Games will be "probably the most amazing in Olympic history." The particularly selective route will take riders from the centre of Beijing to the foot of the Great Wall, where they will then ride several laps of a 24km circuit, with 450m of climbing each lap. This circuit will also be used for the time trial events.

Subject to the approval of the Organising Committee of the 2008 Games (BOCOG) and the Chinese Cycling Association, a two-day race will take place on this circuit in 2007 as part of the UCI Asia Tour. The race will serve as an ideal test event for the forthcoming Olympic Games, both for the organisers and for the national federations and their riders.