Cyclists prove their mettle at MKCC

Cyclists prove their mettle at MKCC

MUNISH DHIMAN  Chandigarh | 22nd Aug 2015

Cyclists taking part in the 2015 Edition of MKCC. The second edition of the Manali-Khardungla Cycling Championship (MKCC) organised by Northern Escapes and Cycling 4 Change, at the world's highest motorable pass, Khardung La (18,380 ft) offered a plethora of challenges to the cyclists that proved futile in comparison to the commitment and passion of the cyclists. The rally, which was flagged off from Manali, put to test the endurance of 63 cyclists from all corners of the world. Cyclists competed against each other amid challenging weather conditions and tough terrains. Three-time women's Mountain Biking national champion of Nepal, Laxmi Magar, was adjudged the winner in the women's category. She won the overall title as well as four different titles in the championship. And army man Purn Bahadur Pradhan was adjudged the winner of the championship in the men's category. The 2015 Edition of MKCC offered two participation categories with varying levels of difficulty to suit every cyclist's temperament and skillset. Deliberately designed on a carefully charted route across tough terrains with varying gradients, exclusively for long-distance endurance cyclists MKCC is one of the ultimate cycling adventure tour for most of the participants. Stretching over 500 kilometres the Manali-Leh-Khardungla highway predominantly comprises of paved roads, with stretches of sand, gravel and rocky terrain thrown in for good measure and is one of the most testing highways. Laxmi after winning the title told The Sunday Guardian, "This has been one of the most challenging championships of my life as it offered the scenic beauty, challenging terrains, tough climates and the excitement of crossing the highest passes of the world on a bicycle. This championship also proved a fruitful training camp for me as it motivated me to take part in different enduring cycle championships that happen across the globe." Purn Bahadur Pradhan said, "This year the championship offered a different level of challenge due to unexpected rains and landslides. Yes, winning adds to the charm of participating, but on this terrain and in such circumstances participation itself is a reward." Talking about the second edition of MKCC, Northern Escapes founder Gaurav Schimar says, "This championship is an endeavour to put the Indian cyclists on the world endurance cycling circuit and to promote cycling for a greener environment. MKCC is the only high-altitude long-distance cycling race in India and we will keep encouraging cyclists to challenge their endurance in every edition." Echoing similar views, Anil Uchil, founder, Cycling 4 Change and Race Director added, "The Manali-Khardungla route is both inspiring and highly exigent for the global cycling community. Being a part of the MKCC is a source of inspiration for myriad cyclists across the globe and something to feel proud of for the participants. More than a physical endurance test it's a championship that put to test your mental endurance as well." http://www.sunday-guardian.com/sports/cyclists-prove-their-mettle-at-mkcc