On May 11, the 24th Qinling Zhongnanshan Mountain Climbing Season & “Youth in Action, Charity for Dreams” Cuihuashan Climbing Challenge concluded successfully at the Cuihuashan Scenic Area in Qinling Zhongnanshan UNESCO Global Geopark. This event was not only a feast of sports competition but also a unique journey blending athletics with geological tourism, attracting numerous sports enthusiasts and tourists. Guided by the Xi’an Municipal Sports Bureau, Xi’an Municipal Culture and Tourism Bureau, Xi’an Chang’an District People’s Government, and Xi’an Tourism Group, the event was organized by the Shaanxi Provincial Sports Lottery Administration Center, Qinling Zhongnanshan UNESCO Global Geopark Management Center, Xi’an Chang’an District Culture, Tourism and Sports Bureau, Xi’an Chang’an District Taiyigong Sub-district Office, and Xi’an Qinling Zhongnanshan UNESCO Global Geopark Tourism Development Co., Ltd. It was hosted by the Cuihuashan Scenic Area, with support from the Shaanxi Carbon Neutral Technology Development Association, Chang’an District Meteorological Bureau, Xi’an Fanyi University, and operated by Shaanxi Sports Group Xifenglie Events Co., Ltd.
In early summer, the Qinling Zhongnanshan Mountains shone like a dazzling gem, captivating participants with their breathtaking scenery. As the starting gun fired, thousands of athletes surged forward like arrows, embarking on a challenging and thrilling journey. Starting from the entrance of Cuihuashan Scenic Area, competitors followed winding mountain roads, passing landmarks such as the Qinling Zhongnanshan Global Geopark Museum and Tianchi Lake before reaching the final destination, Welcoming Pine Square. Along the route, participants experienced both the passion of mountain climbing and the stunning geological wonders of the geopark.
The event featured two categories: the Recreational Group (7km) and the Competitive Group (12km), with an increase of 1,182 meters in altitude. After fierce competition, awards were claimed by top performers in the Men’s Competitive Group, Women’s Competitive Group, and Recreational Group.
To ensure safety and smooth operations, the event deployed professional referees, medical teams, and volunteers, with supply depots and medical points strategically placed along the route. Activities such as the “Imprint of Cuihua” rubbing experience were added to enrich the festive atmosphere.
Coinciding with Mother’s Day, a “Love Confession” activity created heartfelt moments as participants openly expressed gratitude to their mothers, infusing the event with warmth and humanity.
Aligned with China’s “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality” goals, the organizers partnered with the Shaanxi Carbon Neutral Technology Development Association and Xi’an Bangyi Low-Carbon Technology Co., Ltd. to achieve carbon neutrality for the event, earning a Carbon Neutrality Certificate. This initiative highlighted environmental responsibility while inspiring green tourism practices.
The event also fostered regional collaboration, teaming up with attractions like Zhuque Scenic Area, Taiping Scenic Area, Qinling Wildlife Park, Nanwutai Scenic Area, Changning Palace Garden Hotel, and the Taiyigong Cultural Tourism Industry Development Alliance. These partnerships enhanced services for participants, boosted local tourism revenue, and stimulated community development.
Having spanned 24 years, the Qinling Zhongnanshan Global Geopark Climbing Festival remains a beloved tradition. Moving forward, the event will continue to innovate, exploring new ways to integrate sports with geological tourism, inviting more people to embrace mountain climbing while discovering the region’s world-class natural landscapes and the joy of outdoor adventure.
