Organizers of the Sun Hung Kai Properties Hong Kong Cyclothon issued a formal apology following widespread criticism from participants over confusion and logistical issues during the event held yesterday in Hong Kong. The race, which featured multiple course distances including a 32-kilometer and 56-kilometer public ride and a 100.4-kilometer UCI Class 1.1 professional road race, faced significant operational challenges that disrupted the experience for many cyclists.
The Cycling Association of Hong Kong China acknowledged that a lead vehicle mistakenly directed riders on the 32-kilometer route off course after an accident earlier in the day involving two participants in the 56km event. In order to ensure swift medical attention for the injured riders, on-site staff temporarily moved traffic cones at the entrance to the Nam Wan Tunnel to create an emergency lane. This adjustment inadvertently caused confusion for the lead vehicle guiding the 32km group, resulting in the cyclists being diverted away from their intended route onto the Nam Wan Tunnel rather than crossing Ting Kau Bridge as planned.
Due to the downhill stretch and high speeds, the following cyclists were compelled to follow the diverted path for safety reasons, with some eventually forced to complete sections of the route on foot. The association expressed sincere regret over the inconvenience and disappointment caused by the course error and subsequent race disruptions.
Participants voiced frustration on social media platforms about the chaos experienced during the event. Many criticized the unclear signage and logistical arrangements that led to bottlenecks and, in some cases, required riders to navigate against oncoming traffic. Others labeled the event a "bike-pushing festival," reflecting difficulties with congestion that prevented continuous cycling, particularly near the finish. Riders also reported challenges reaching the start due to limited public transport options and a single access route at the West Kowloon Cultural District, where the start and finish had been relocated this year from the previous venue in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Complaints extended to affected motorists, who experienced significant traffic delays, with some reporting being stuck for up to two hours without prior notice of road closures. This contrasted with other large-scale events such as the Hong Kong Marathon, where road shutdowns are typically announced in advance.
Despite the disruptions in the public races, the professional UCI 1.1 road race proceeded and was won by Paul Magnier of France, riding for Soudoi Quick-Step, in a time of 2 hours, 3 minutes, and 30 seconds. Vincent Lau Wan-yau was the top Hong Kong finisher, placing 32nd in the field of 93 riders.
While the professional competition concluded without reported incident, many participants of the public rides said the logistical errors and safety concerns overshadowed the event. The organizer’s apology seeks to address the shortcomings, but social media conversations suggest lasting dissatisfaction among the cycling community.