Frank Gao, G11 高熙恒

During the National Day holiday, our newly formed cycling team set out for Lijiang in Yunnan Province. As the team leader, I carefully prepared for what would be our first high-altitude cycling trip.

On Oct. 3, the crossing of the Dry River Valley marked the first test of our journey. The first half of the route, facing the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, was scattered with loose rocks. Our wheels jolted over the uneven surface, and any lapse in focus could easily lead to a slip. In the second half, a series of sharp turns wound along a high-speed forest trail. With the wind roaring past our ears, a blend of tension and excitement pushed aside the fatigue from earlier, leaving everyone exhilarated by the end of the day.

Our second day followed an out-and-back route to Abujicuo, where the altitude climbed to nearly 4,400 meters. The trail combined forest paths, rocky stretches, and high-mountain terrain, presenting incredibly tough riding conditions. As we labored upward, the sky seemed almost within reach. Despite the unpredictable and demanding path, no one in the team showed fear — though altitude sickness quietly set in. The strenuous exercise at such heights left some teammates dizzy, short of breath, and even vomiting.

Fortunately, we had planned for this. After taking medication, inhaling some oxygen, and resting briefly, I carefully checked on each member, urged everyone to slow down, and encouraged them to push a little further once they caught their breath. We were a team, and we would stay together through every challenge. In the end, not a single rider was left behind as we reached the 4,400-meter summit. Gazing out over the mountain ranges, we took a group photo at the top — we had conquered the toughest 28 kilometers on two wheels.

The routes over the next two days, spanning 36 kilometers in total, were full of surprises. We reminded each other to steer clear of potholes, balancing speed with control, and celebrated every successful turn with cheers.

Over the four-day journey, we cycled nearly 100 kilometers across altitudes ranging from 2,600 to 4,400 meters. We knew the roads were perilous, yet we chose to charge ahead together. I am proud of my teammates and myself — for our resilience throughout the trip, and for the warmth and support we shared in moments of hardship.