Focus Taiwan
Date: 2019/10/22
By: Yu Hsiao-han and Chiang Yi-ching

Taipei, Oct. 22 (CNA) A total of 730 cyclists from 42 countries are expected to compete in the 2019 Taiwan KOM (King of the Mountains) Challenge set for Oct. 25, organizers said Tuesday.

The Taiwan KOM Challenge, currently in its 8th year, is part of the Taiwan Cycling Festival. It is also considered one of the world's toughest uphill bike races, according to the Tourism Bureau, one of the event organizers.

The 105-kilometer race begins in Qixingtan scenic area on the Pacific coast at sea level, before climbing 87 kilometers through the majestic Taroko Gorge to Wuling at 3,275-meters, near Hehuanshan, the highest point accessible by public road in Taiwan.    [FULL  STORY]