The failure of Taipei County police to coordinate also showed up inadequacies that will prevent the Tour de Taiwan becoming a major event in the near future. Traffic police failed to meet riders when they crossed from Ilan into Taipei, and on the following day, managed to misdirect some riders onto a steep climb that wasn't part of the race.
In response to criticism, Taipei County police threatened to levy a fine on the race organizers for not applying for clearance for the race in Taipei County, according to Chinese-language media.
On this point, Li said, "They just didn't realize its importance. All other local police gave their full cooperation. Don't they realize this reflects on the image of Taiwan?"
Overall, Li said that the response from the riders had been good -- despite frustration and anger over the mix ups in Taipei County -- and that the event looked impressive.
"I am an artist as well as a cyclist," Li said, "so I wanted to create a beautiful race."
While money continues to be in short supply, the likelihood of the race raising its international profile is a long way in the distance. But it's all valuable experience for a country that has the potential to offer one of the most challenging bicycle road races in the region.
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