The first ever Criterium Bike Race was held on November 11 from 5am to 12 pm in Mandalay and cyclists from four Asian countries and Myanmar participated in different road race categories. 30 professional cyclists from Cambodia, China, India, Singapore and Myanmar competed in the Men (U-23) and in Men Junior (U-19) categories. More than 100 local amateur cyclists also took part in the Open and Masters Criterium races. The event entertained the 5,000 strong audience including Chief Minister of Mandalay who enjoyed their first experience watching Criterium races as a section of students also participated in a bike ride to share the positive message of ” Ride for Peace”. “Mandalay is a well-known bike city and we are proud to host Myanmar’s first Criterium Race in Mandalay. This event is a wonderful opportunity to allow our young cyclists to complete against international competition, and for our amateur riders to gain competitive experiences. Today, we invited many young students to observe this event and to inspire them to pick up sports such as cycling” said Chief Minister of Mandalay Dr. Zaw Myint Maung.
The race winners are determined according to the total points scored during the race. For instances when riders finished a race with the same points, the judges reviews the individual lap rankings. The winners of the each categories were awarded cash prizes form $ 2,000 to 100,000 Kyats each. “On behalf of Myanmar Cycling Federation, I would like to share my appreciation to the organizing team and sponsors of the first ever Criterion Bike Race in Myanmar. We are glad Dr. Zaw Myint Maung, Chief Minister of Mandalay Region, has joined us this morning to participate in the opening bike ride with other invited guests. We look forward to hosting future regional and international cycling events in the future to promote the sport to more people across Myanmar.” President of MCF (Myanmar Cycling Federation) and Chairman of Myan Shwe Pyi Group (MSP CAT) Khin Maung Win explained. The event was organized by MSP CAT, MCF and Ministry of Health and Sports, the event created history as the first invitational Criterium Races.
