Tour de Link 2024 just wrapped up its first round of competition. Now in its fourth consecutive year, this in-mall cycling event has featured fierce competition among cyclists and welcomed participants ranging from teenagers to seniors, from fun-seeking casual riders to dedicated sports enthusiasts, with outcomes often too close to call. The second round kicked off on 21 August. What will it take to become this year’s Men’s or Women’s champion? What’s the secret to unleashing one’s latent potential and surpassing personal bests? Channel 823 interviewed Cherry and Ross, two members of last year’s TEAMGOLD led by “Asia’s Cycling Champion” Wong Kam-po, to learn how they are pushing past boundaries this year to go above and beyond.

The children’s champ returns to defend title

Upon entering TKO Spot, a small figure with a familiar face, wearing a cycling jersey and pedalling a stationary bike with all her might, garners everyone’s attention. It is Cherry, last year’s double champion of the Ace Team MVP (Most Valuable Player) and the Children’s Champ. With a new haircut this summer, she is determined to surpass her previous achievements in Tour de Link 2024. “I usually play badminton, but I’ve been taking advantage of my summer holiday to cycle at the mall for two to three hours every day,” Cherry explains. “I’m exercising more than usual to improve my performance.”

As a member of TEAMGOLD last year, Cherry enjoyed making new friends from the Ace Team. This year, “TKO Challenger Cherry” has taken an early lead by riding a cumulative distance of 2,601.8m. When asked about her goals this year, she expressed her determination to defend her Children’s Champ title and win the Ace Team competition. Cherry reveals her strategic approach: “I hope to beat my distance achieved last year and my target this year. That’s why I started slowly at the beginning of the competition. I want to build up enough energy for a strong finish!”

Sports enthusiast aims to challenge himself and truly become the district champ

Ross, another member of TEAMGOLD, has been participating in Tour de Link since 2022. In the first round of this year’s Men’s competition, Ross, competing under the racing handle of “Lok Fu’s World Champ”, scored the second rank on the Hong Kong leaderboard, covering a total distance of 4,554m. What prompted him to join the competition initially? Ross explains: “I live in Lok Fu. When I saw the indoor cycling competition held at the shopping mall, I wanted to join to improve my fitness and challenge myself physically.”

Last year, Ross also participated in a long-distance running training programme sponsored by Link Together Initiatives and organised by the InspiringHK Sports Foundation. Training alongside young runners on the HOMERUN team allowed him to befriend fellow sports enthusiasts and develop a regular exercise routine: “Since I took up cycling, my lung capacity has improved.”

A returning competitor, Ross entered the familiar arena and was captivated by the vibrant, comic book-inspired decorations: “I think it’s a brilliant platform for cyclists. The eye-catching backdrop and fun atmosphere attract parents and children, who come to take photos or join in the event.”

Ross finished ninth in the Lok Fu Men’s category last year, riding a respectable distance of 3,987.7m. He is aiming higher this year: “I aim to secure a top spot in both the Men’s and Ace Team categories, surpassing my previous records in both ranking and distance.” To achieve this goal, Ross has stepped up his preparation. He now practices cycling for one to two hours, two to three days a week. He explains his race strategy: “I start with a gradual warm-up followed by a gentle ride. Once I’ve found my breathing rhythm and built up enough stamina, I go flat out.”

The second round of Tour de Link 2024 began on 21 August. Don’t miss this chance to unleash your potential and push beyond your limits!

Second Round of Competition