The 8th Hercules MTB Himalaya-2012 bike rally concluded here today after pedaling furiously through the landscape and the mountain terrain of almost 500 kms. In overall category, Narayan Gopal from Nepal bagged first prize of Rs. 60,000 while Aayman Tamang of Nepal and Richard McDowell of United Kingdom secured second and third positions and were given cash prize of Rs. 40,000 and Rs. 20,000, respectively. Apart from this, 28 other participants were also given consolation prizes.
The rally was organized by Himachal Sports and Tourism Promotion Association (HSTPA), Himachal Tourism and Hercules Organizations.
Chief Secretary, S. Roy who was the Chief Guest on the concluding function said that Himachal Pradesh was promoting adventure and religious tourism in the State in a big way. He said that Himachal Pradesh had become a hub for adventure activities and had numerous wonderful hill stations which offer heaps of adventure sports activities, apart from the breathtaking panoramic view of its landscapes. He said that the State Government was promoting adventure sports such as Hang-gliding, Para gliding, Trekking, skiing, hiking etc.
Roy said that mountain-cycling was a healthy exercise and was environment friendly and added that the State Government would make efforts to encourage such events, so as to attract tourists and provide them an alternate in adventure sports. He also distributed the prizes to the winners of the event. The much coveted MTB Himalaya 2012 was flagged off on 29th September, 2012 and traversed through Jalori Pass (3135 meter) in district Kullu.
