2019 Tour of Guangxi to change routes

NANNING, China, March 4 (Xinhua) -- Adjustments will be made to some of the cycling routes of the 2019 Gree UCI WorldTour Tour of Guangxi, according to race director Olivier Senn.

"We are here in Guangxi because we want to look at one or two new stages, or at least passing the stages," Senn said. "We are looking at different options here in Nanning for a new stage, and we're also going to look at the new stage finish in Nongla."

Senn told Xinhua that some climbs would be added for the race in Nanning, with Qingxiu Mountain having been chosen as the main venue. "We are looking to create a little bit more interest in this stage. So that's why we're trying to go through this park, with the hills and beautiful scenery."

Senn added that the other four stages would be nearly the same as last year's, "because they're good and last year there was a great mix of stages for sprinters and climbers."

Authorized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the Gree Tour of Guangxi is a top ranking race organized by the local government and China's Wanda Group. All 18 elite teams recognized by the UCI participated in 2018's event.