The journey of two cycling enthusiasts in China left an unforgettable impression
A 47-year-old history teacher and a 27-year-old computer engineer left their native Russia last November to embark on a round-the-world cycling trip.
At around 8 p.m. on the 13th, the pair completed their 760-kilometer journey from Beijing and arrived in Shenyang. After a brief stroll, the two were deeply impressed by the warmth of the people in Shenyang and the sight of people dancing on the streets...
Grachev and Arlen Kharulin are two Russian cycling enthusiasts who have been traveling the world by bike. The two met three years ago.
Grachev said their trip has three purposes: first, to promote the 27th Summer Universiade to be held this year in Kazan; second, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the world cycling tour by Oleg Pankratov from Kazan; and third, to advocate for a healthy lifestyle free of drugs.
Kharulin said that previously, he had the impression that China only had big cities, and that there was nothing between them, but after setting foot on Chinese soil, he realized that some smaller Chinese cities are also great and economically developed.
"Our favorite Chinese food is dumplings, and we also enjoy Chinese cuisine." But after arriving in Shenyang, they felt that the dishes they had these past two days were somewhat spicy.
As for Shenyang, they found it to have a unique charm. Grachev told reporters that after arriving in Shenyang, he and Arlen Kharulin went out for a casual stroll and were deeply impressed by many things unique to Shenyang. "The people in Shenyang are warm and dance on the streets—these things are really interesting."
Kharulin said that in Kazan, many citizens are very curious about China because the last Universiade was successfully held in Shenzhen, China. Currently, the city of Kazan is also going all out to prepare for the Universiade, with the construction of various sports venues largely completed. "We also want to showcase the most beautiful side of our city and host a Universiade that will amaze the world."
Today, Grachev and Arlen Kharulin will leave Shenyang, with their next stop being Harbin, and then they will return to their home country via Manzhouli.