Global pump track event sparks sporting passion in Yantai

The brand-new pump track at Fenghuanghu Park secures the Guinness World Record for the greatest elevation difference in an asphalt pump track. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_6b2887b87597]

Yantai in East China's Shandong province recently hosted the UCI Pump Track World Championships China Qualifier in its Laishan district, igniting a summer sports frenzy in the area.

Nearly 400 athletes took to the brand-new pump track at Fenghuanghu Park, which has made history by clinching the Guinness World Record for the greatest elevation difference in an asphalt pump track.

A little boy rides on the pump track. [Photo/WeChat account: dianfanlaishan]

Before the races began, top pump track riders from around the world, such as Belgium's Aiko Gommers, Switzerland's Serafin Dettwiler, and China's Zhang Jingkun, delivered spectacular performances for the enjoyment of both participants and spectators. 

Following intense competition, Jiang Jiajie from Yantai, China and Tetsuya from Japan emerged victorious in the women's and men's categories, respectively, securing their spots in the final, which is scheduled for November in South Africa.

Belgian pump track rider Aiko Gommers (left) gives an exciting performance for the audience. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_6b2887b87597]

“It's heartening to see so many Chinese children enthusiastically participating in the pump track competition. I hope more and more children join our cycling community,” said Gommers, who recently represented the Belgian national team at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, finishing fifth in the BMX racing event.

The UCI Pump Track World Championships, organized by the Union Cycliste Internationale, is a prestigious global pump track event. The Yantai competition served as one of only two Asian qualifiers this year, playing a vital role in promoting the popularization of pump track sports.