It is scorching hot in Beijing in August. The "Good Luck Beijing" 2007 International Road Cycling Invitational Race began at noontime of August 18 on schedule. All cyclists from 18 countries and regions gathered at Yongdingmen, the starting point of the race. The cyclists in colorful outfits presented a spectacular view in the Chinese capital and instilled new vitality in the ancient city walls.

The cyclists are to face an extremely tough challenge, riding from Yongdingmen to the Juyongguan Great Wall. It may be rated as the hardest route in the history of the Olympic road cycling.

This route boasts a high drop of elevation and includes a hill-climbing stage, which is a great challenge for all competitors. As a Chinese saying goes, "You will not gain a full view of the beautiful landscape unless you conquer the perilous peak." Only those finishing the entire race can comprehend the true meaning of the saying. Besides, the route is the most beautiful landscape line across Beijing, with a full length of 174km. It runs by way of many scenic spots in Beijing and ends at the world-famous Great Wall. As another saying goes, "He who doesn't reach the Great Wall is not a true man". It is believed that the cyclists will all become "true men" through such a challenging race.

Close at hand as the beautiful landscape is, the cyclists have no time for it but are busy with final adjustments of their bikes or warming-up for the race.

At 1:00 p.m., the cyclists will set out from Yongdingmen and are expected to finish the race in about four hours.