The 2018 Cycling Race around Songya Lake kicks off in Changsha county on Nov 3. [Photo/changsha.cn]

The Seventh Cycling Race around Songya Lake kicked off in Changsha county on Nov 3, attracting 500 cyclists from across the country.

This year's event saw contestants take off along a 20-kilometer-route. Sponsored by Changsha county people's government, the race was divided into three categories: two men's groups for participants aged 18-39 and 40-60, and a women's group for those aged 18-60.

The event is expected to encourage residents to opt for low-carbon green travel options, protect the ecological environment, and showcase the county's beautiful environment.

The 2018 Cycling Race around Songya Lake attracts more than 500 cyclists from all over the country to take part in the competition. [Photo by Zhang Di/icswb.com]

The competitors begin their 20km race around Songya Lake. [Photo by Zhang Di/icswb.com]