CHANGCHUN, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- The second stage of the 11th edition of Tour de Ski China started in Changchun Deer Valley on Wednesday with Sweden's Simon Persson and Lockner Jackline winning the men's and women's titles respectively.

China's Qu Ying finished second in the women's race.

The tour de ski event attracts 80 professional skiers from 15 countries and regions including China, Sweden, Norway and the United States. In the men's group competition, Simon Persson eased to victory without facing any serious challenges. French skier Rege Gianasso Samuel and Norway's Ragnar Bragvj Andersen finished second and third.

22-year-old Qu Ying was the only Chinese skiier entering the women's final. In the final, Qu Ying took an early lead before Sweden's Lockner Jackline turned the tide. Finland's Kivikko Noora won the bronze medal.

The third stage will open in Changchun Vasaloppet on January 4.