Changwon, Gyeongnam – The 2025 Tour de Gyeongnam Special Race concluded on November 9 in Changwon, with Ryu Geum-chan, a 23-year-old office worker, claiming the coveted Yellow Jersey as the overall individual champion. Ryu’s victory in the three-day, 230.8-kilometer amateur cycling event, which traversed Geoje, Sacheon, Namhae, and Changwon, has captured the imagination of cycling enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Ryu, who completed the arduous course in 5 hours, 35 minutes, and 9 seconds, demonstrated not only exceptional physical prowess but also unyielding mental fortitude throughout the competition. His victory is all the more compelling given his identity as a seemingly ordinary office employee who meticulously balances a demanding work schedule with an intense training regimen.
"I just enjoyed the cycling I love," Ryu remarked after securing his victory. "Cycling is everything to me." This simple declaration encapsulates the passion that drives him, often waking at 3:00 AM on weekdays to cycle for three hours before starting his workday. When asked about the difficulty of such a routine, he explained, "The refreshing feeling of riding on the road while breathing the cool morning air is the driving force of my daily life." He emphasizes that the process of cycling itself is his reward, regardless of the competition's outcome.
The Thrill of the Sprint
Ryu's triumph was a testament to his explosive finishing power and strategic racing. The first stage in Geoje presented an immediate challenge. As the race neared its end, Ryu suffered severe cramps in both thighs during the final 2.7 km uphill finish. His pace visibly dropped. However, in a breathtaking display of resolve, he unleashed a powerful sprint in the final ten seconds, surging past the leading rival, Jung Woo-ram (37), to seize the Yellow Jersey (awarded to the overall individual leader).
He maintained this momentum in the second stage, spanning Sacheon and Namhae, again outsprinting his competitors just 500 meters from the finish line to defend his lead. The final stage through the streets of Changwon saw him adopt a steady, controlled pace, which was sufficient to confirm his overall individual title. Ryu also took home the Sprint Prize, underscoring his versatility. Jung Woo-ram and Park Han-heuk secured second and third place, respectively.
Spotlight on Other Champions
The special race also celebrated excellence across other categories:
Pink Jersey (Best Woman Rider): The Pink Jersey, awarded to the top female rider, was jointly claimed by Kim Hyun-jin and Lee Hae-won (both 34), who tied with 10 points. However, due to not completing the first stage, they were not included in the overall standings.
Gold Dot Jersey (Best Gold Rider): Kim Jin-pil (46) secured the Gold Dot Jersey, designated for the top-ranking participant aged 45 and over. Kim finished with a total time of 5 hours, 37 minutes, and 11 seconds.
The 2025 Tour de Gyeongnam Special Race not only highlighted the scenic routes of the Gyeongnam region but also showcased the dedicated amateur talent in South Korea. Ryu Geum-chan’s success story—a dedicated office worker who turns early morning sacrifice into on-road victory—serves as a powerful inspiration, reinforcing his belief that cycling is indeed his life.
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