Shimla: Governor Acharya Dev Vrat from The Ridge at the city centre flagged off the 9 day gruelling mountain biking race that would pass through some of the toughest biking tracks in the region to conclude at Dharamshala on 9th October. The biking event, being organized by Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism Promotion Association (HASTPA) in collaboration with Hero Cycles, is a one of its kind adventure in the Himalayas.
The race comprises of an exciting and excruciating 9 day journey will saw talent of the 90 odd riders .
Speaking on the occasion Governor Acharya Dev Vrat said “Pollution is not just of the environment but also of thoughts, and I request all the Indian national riders who will be taking on this journey of MTB Himalaya to promote our culture amongst the international riders.”; He went on to thank the international riders for promoting this pollution free transport as a means of travel, and encouraged them to have a pollution free and environment friendly trip.
Mr Mohit Sood, President HASTPA said, “We have strived to develop this sport in this part of the country and promote local talent. This year we have the highest participation from women with Poonam Rana being one of the 13 total women participants in the event.”
The highest point of the race is the Jalori Pass, at an altitude of 3,131 metre.
Canadian rider Wallace, 33, who is currently the WEMBO World Solo 24-Hour Mountain Bike Champion, is participating in the Open Men Solo category.Current champion ‘King of Himalayas’ German Andi Seewald is not participating. Last season, the race saw a close contest between Cory, Seewald and seven-time world champion and Australian rider Jason English.
The current ‘Queen of Himalayas’ Catherine Williamson is participating this season again to defend her title.She made a hat-trick last year by winning race in the Women Solo category.
Shimla-based Ankush Arya, who rides for Hero Action team, got an opportunity to compete with Catherine and Cory in the last season. This time he is again participating .
