Cyclists will contest a 17-day trans-Vietnam race for the 1,000th anniversary of Hanoi , the Vietnam Cycling Federation said on August 30.

The 14-stage 1,500km race from HCM City to Hanoi would begin on September 23 and end on October 9. The last time-trial stage will be held at Hoan Kiem Lake to celebrate the millennium of the capital city and the 56th anniversary of Hanoi 's liberation day on October 10th.

"It's the biggest race of the year as the country’s eye will be on the great celebration of Hanoi . We have invited foreign riders to compete in the event, which is a good opportunity for Vietnamese athletes to horn their skills," said the Federation's general secretary Doan Kim Phach.

"The Malaysian team has agreed to take part in the event and we expect more powerhouses are also eager to join a tough race," he said.

The general secretary also added the race will see around 100 athletes from 13 teams of Vietnam and foreign squads of the Republic of Korea , Mongolia and the Philippines .

"We hope to make the race successfully in the occasion of big festivals to be held in the city," Phach said.

The race organising committee will offer special awards to the overall yellow jersey (the best time rider); green jersey for the best stage finish athlete; the red jersey for the ‘King of Mountain' and white jersey, for the best young cyclist./.