The opening ceremony for the 24 Turnings Guizhou Qinglong China Off-road Championship was held in Annan, an ancient town in Qinglong county, Qianxinan Bouyei and Miao autonomous prefecture, on Sept 18.

Local government officials and the tournament director of the Federation Automobile Sports of China attended the ceremony.

A participant prepares for the race at the opening ceremony of the 24 Turns Guizhou Qinglong China Off-road Championship on Sept 18. [Photo/Idqxn.com]

According to Zhang Guozhi, Qinglong's party secretary, the splendid culture and unique geography of Qinglong make it a perfect place for off-road racing, with the county having successfully held several in the past. 

"Qinglong has invested 80 million yuan ($ 12.18 million) in the construction of the track along the 24 Turns this year," said Zhang. "We will increase investments in mountain tourism infrastructures construction to build the most distinctive motor sports base in China." 

After the ceremony, 75 vehicles drove from Annan to take part in the qualifying sessions in Stillwell Town. In the following days, preliminary races and the final competition will be held. The final competition will also air live on CCTV5. 

Cars speed along the 24 Turns on Sept 18. [Photo/Idqxn.com]

Known as a "lifeline during the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1937-45)", the 24 Turns of Stillwell Road (a highway built during World War II allowing Western Allies to provide critical supplies to China) has now become a challenging track for off-road racecar drivers.