In August, Shannan, Xizang bathed in golden sunlight, with splendors unfolding across its landscape. The people of Yarlung joyfully laughed, sang, and danced as they celebrated the opening ceremony of the second stage of the Sixth China Xizang Trans-Himalaya International Cycling Race in 2025. They extended a warm welcome to guests from around the world.

During the competition, the residents gathered on both sides of the road, donning traditional costumes representative of Shannan. Some held white hada scarves in their hands, while others raised the Five-starred Red Flag. Additionally, some displayed the vibrant pulu(woolen fabric) made in Shannan, and others rode horses, enthusiastically cheering for the competitors as they passed by.

Jiaoqiong, a 53-year-old villager from Kena Village in Cuosheloma Town, Co Nyi County, Xizang, is one of the beneficiaries of the ecological relocation policy implemented in the region. In 2021, he relocated from Co Nyi County in Nagqu City, situated at an average altitude of approximately 5,000 meters, to Senburi Village, where he began to enjoy a more convenient and modern lifestyle. On that day, upon learning that the finish line of the cycling race was located right at his doorstep, Jiaoqiong and his fellow villagers thronged early to await the competitors. They even donned traditional Tibetan costumes to cheer for them enthusiastically.

“Today, I went to watch the cycling race and felt truly happy. As a herdsman, I have never seen such an event before. Being here this time hits me in ways that words can’t tell,” Jiaoqiong remarked. “Since our relocation, all aspects of life have improved greatly. The Party and the government built new homes and roads for us, and provided access to water and electricity. Now we can even witness such an international event in person. Life is indeed getting better. It’s a whole new world compared to back then.”

This race serves as a microcosm of the development of sports in the Xizang Autonomous Region over the past 60 years since its establishment. It exemplifies the strong support provided by the state and highlights Xizang’s unique developmental trajectory, which is rooted in its distinct advantages. This international event, which merges the passion for sports with ethnic customs, not only showcases Shannan’s breathtaking natural scenery to a global audience but also vividly illustrates the joyful lives of various ethnic groups in Xizang during this new era. As Jiaoqiong aptly stated, “Our life is just like these racing bikes, as long as we are willing to work hard, we will get a better life.”