December 2, 2024
December 2, 2024
TAWANG, Nov 09: Towering excitement reached new heights in Tawang as the world’s highest enduro mountain biking race – Monduro 4.0 – was flagged off from the bustling walkthrough market in Tawang on Saturday.
The event, inaugurated by Tawang legislator Namgey Tsering, marks a thrilling chapter for adventure sports in Arunachal Pradesh.
Organized by the Tawang Cycling Association and sponsored by the state’s tourism department, Monduro 4.0 boasts a course that challenges riders with its 14,400-foot starting altitude, descending steeply to 8,000 feet.
Known as one of the world’s toughest races, this year’s lineup includes international heavyweights like the 2024 UCI World Champion, Alex Rudeau from France, and Nepal’s downhill champion, Neerav Shrestha, alongside other elite competitors in enduro racing.
In his remarks, Tsering lauded Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the Tawang Cycling Association, led by Dr Dukhum Magu, and the tourism department for their pivotal roles in bringing this international spectacle to Tawang. He expressed optimism that the event would elevate Tawang’s profile on the global tourism map.
Highlighting the unique blend of sport and heritage, Tsering also applauded the association’s efforts to revive traditional foot trails once used by locals for travel and trade with Tibet. These ancient paths now form part of the Monduro race route, adding a historical touch to the endurance challenge.
Tawang Brigade Commander Brigadier VS Rajput, extended his best wishes to participants, emphasizing the role of such races in building resilience and fostering camaraderie.
Monduro 4.0, set to host cyclists from eight countries, promises four action-packed days. Practice races are scheduled for November 10 and 11, allowing riders to acclimatize before the final, heart-pounding showdown on November 13 and 14.
Tawang additional deputy commissioner Sang Khandu, district tourism officer Tsering Deki, and other dignitaries attended the opening ceremony, underscoring the race’s growing prominence as a landmark event in Arunachal’s adventure tourism scene.
