On October 13, 2024, the World Orienteering Ranking Event took place at the Tianzhu Mountain National Forest Park in Shanyang, Shaanxi Province. This exciting competition drew over 1,000 athletes from 26 countries and regions, including Switzerland, Finland, Belgium, and Norway.
With the theme “Enjoying the Beautiful Qinling Mountains through Smart Running,” this event aims to actively promote national fitness initiatives and deepen public engagement with the sport of orienteering.
Tianzhu Mountain National Forest Park, known for its stunning landscapes, fresh air, and rich natural resources, provided an ideal backdrop for the competition. As participants navigated the rugged terrain, they reveled in the tranquility and beauty that nature has to offer.
Athletes skillfully maneuvered through forest trails equipped with maps and compasses, showcasing their orienteering skills and determination amidst the challenging routes. Iconic sights like Tianzhu Mo Xiao, Dao Bei Liang, and Qian Chi Ya, along with breathtaking sea clouds and sunrises, left lasting impressions on the competitors.
After intense competition, the male and female champions of the elite division were Tomas Krivda and Jana Peterova from the Czech Republic, while Xing Kexin and Liu Jing claimed victories in the men’s and women’s orienteering categories, respectively.
In addition to the exhilarating races, the event featured a range of cultural exchange activities. Athletes visited the county cultural center to learn about Shanyang’s history and local customs, and even engaged with schoolchildren to promote the spirit of sports through orienteering.
Xie Xiaojun, Secretary of the Shanyang County Committee of the Communist Party of China, noted that hosting this event has further ignited public enthusiasm for sports and allowed many to experience the unique charm of “exploring Shanyang through the event.” By integrating sports, culture, and tourism, the event is fostering diverse development in these sectors and injecting new vitality into the economic and social progress of Shanyang County.