Shimla: The conclusion of the Shimla chapter of 'FireFox Road to Himalaya' witnessed Ruben Panjeta, Akash Sherpa, and Divija Sood clinching the top honors among Shimla's cyclists.
Despite a delayed start due to rain, the enthusiasm of the young riders remained undiminished.
The first 'FireFox Road to Himalaya' race, held on April 14, 2024, in Shimla, marked the beginning of a series of 10 such races scheduled to take place in various cities across India.
The aim of these races is to identify top talents nationwide and provide them with the opportunity to participate in the prestigious FireFox MTB Shimla 2024, scheduled between May 10 and 12.
The race route, starting from Dak Bungalow Retreat in Mashobra, covered a distance of 21 kilometers, including uphill climbs of about 500 meters and downhill descents of 600 meters, traversing through the region's trails and previous roads.
The race was divided into three categories, with the following riders securing top honors:
- Women:
- Divija Sood (Shimla): 1 hour, 45 minutes, and 10 seconds
- Under 17:
- Ruben (Shimla): 1 hour, 13 minutes, and 1 second
- Parvik Kukreja (Shimla): 1 hour, 17 minutes, and 36 seconds
- Arav Thakur (Shimla): 1 hour, 18 minutes, and 50 seconds
- Open (17+):
- Akash Sherpa (Shogi): 1 hour, 4 minutes, and 40 seconds
- Nikhil Thakur (Kullu): 1 hour, 6 minutes, and 56 seconds
- Rajbir Singh (Shimla): 1 hour, 7 minutes, and 0 seconds
Akash Sherpa emerged as the fastest rider overall.
These athletes have qualified for the upcoming 11th edition of FireFox MTB Shimla 2024, receiving free entry into the mega race. They will be joined by winners from qualifiers held in 10 cities across India.
"It's delightful to see the participation of young riders in such large numbers. Shimla's youth undoubtedly rank among India's finest cyclists, and today's event reaffirmed that.
Despite the rain and storm causing a delayed start, the enthusiasm shown by the young participants remained unaffected.
We are excited to witness how riders from other states fare against the backdrop of the Himalayas, and it will be gratifying to see our riders compete with the best talents in India," said Mohit Sood, President of HASTPA.
The race was organized by HASTPA, the Shimla Cycling Association."
