▲ This photo provided by Inje County shows in Gangwon Province cycling enthusiasts challenge their limits during the event. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, June 18 (Yonhap) -- Inje County in Gangwon Province has completed preparations for the 2026 Seorak Gran Fondo, a major festival for cycling enthusiasts across the country, and is ready to welcome participants ahead of the event scheduled for Saturday.

 

According to county officials Thursday, a total of 4,497 cyclists from across the nation will take part in the race, which will be held in the Sangnam-myeon area.

 

Of them, 3,210 riders will compete in the Gran Fondo race covering 208 kilometers, while 1,287 participants will join the Medio Fondo race spanning 105 kilometers.

 

First launched in 2014, the Seorak Gran Fondo has grown into one of the country's premier cycling festivals and marks its 12th edition this year.

 

▲ This photo provided by Inje County shows in Gangwon Province cycling enthusiasts challenge their limits during the event. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

 

The event is so popular that registration fills up almost immediately after opening, prompting cycling enthusiasts to joke that "you have to conquer the registration process before entering the race." It is widely regarded as a bucket-list challenge among riders.

 

The Gran Fondo course begins in front of Unjeong Minbak in Sangnam-myeon and passes through Saldun Pass, Guryong Pass, Jochim Pass, Sseuri Pass and Hangyeryeong before returning to the Inje Riding Center.

 

Known for its demanding mountain roads crossing the Baekdudaegan mountain range, the course is considered one of the most challenging in South Korea and tests both the physical endurance and mental strength of participants.

 

The 105-kilometer Medio Fondo course also starts at Unjeong Minbak and runs through Saldun Pass, Guryong Pass, Jochim Pass, Jindong 2 Bridge intersection, Jinbang intersection and Omijae Pass before finishing at the Inje Riding Center.

 

Participants are expected to enjoy spectacular views of Seoraksan and the Baekdudaegan range while experiencing a unique ride through pristine natural surroundings.

 

To ensure the event's safe operation, county officials have established a traffic control, safety and medical support system in cooperation with police, firefighters and volunteer organizations.

 

Traffic controllers and safety personnel will be deployed at key points along the courses, while ambulances and medical teams will be on standby to respond to emergencies.

 

"We will do our utmost until the very end to ensure that all participants complete the race safely and leave Inje with fond memories," Kim Chun-mi, head of the county's sports and youth division, said.

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]