Mountain bike trails being prepared for the 25th SEA Games in Vientiane next month should be finished by November 25, according to the constructors.
When local press visited the trails in Houaynhang village, Naxaithong district, the head of the venue reported that both downhill and uneven trails were almost complete and would be finished next week.
The constructor, Mr Chanseng Panichith, said the downhill trail was 1.6km long and the uneven trail was 7km. Both trails will be used by cyclists from participating countries during the games.
“Construction began last month so we've had just two months to get everything done. We are clearing land to build a mountain bike track, which we have been able to do using the local natural features,” he said.
He was confident the trails would compare favourably with similar facilities in the region and that Laos would be successful in hosting international mountain bike events after the SEA Games.
The Union Cycliste Internationale has checked construction of the trails to guarantee the standard meets that required for the SEA Games.
“I believe cyclists and spectators will enjoy the competition here because the trails are set among big trees, rocky surfaces and other natural features,” Mr Chanseng said.
Cycling Federation Secretary Lassamy Soundara said 16 cyclists are ready to represent Laos at the SEA Games.
The federation selected its 16 national representatives following the Eighth National Games in Champassak province last year.
They have since been based at the cycling centre in Vatnak village, Sisattanak district.
“Since beginning training there, they have taken part in competitions in Thailand , including the Road and MTB Thailand Championship 2009 in Chainat province, and the 28th National Games in Trang province,” Mr Lassamy said.
Lao cyclists achieved second, third, fourth and fifth places in various events in those races.
“Currently our cyclists are training hard and we can see they are improving as they prepare for the SEA Games.”
Vientianetimes
