International mountain cycling competition ends at Bir-Billing
The three-day UCI International Mountain Biking Championship, organised at the world-famous paragliding and adventure sports destination Bir-Billing, concluded successfully yesterday, marking a proud moment for both the state and the nation.
Sports Minister Yadvinder Goma graced the valedictory ceremony as the chief guest, while Baijnath MLA Kishori Lal attended as the guest of honour. Goma felicitated winners across various categories with certificates and mementos. He lauded the participants for their enthusiasm, discipline and sportsmanship. He termed the successful hosting of the event at Bir-Billing a matter of immense pride for the state and the country. He particularly highlighted that the prestigious competition was organised in India for the first time at Bir-Billing, with enthusiastic participation from cyclists representing different countries. The event elevated India’s stature in the global adventure sports arena.
The Minister reiterated that the state government was working toward strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting adventure sports. He said such international and national-level competitions not only provided athletes with a platform to showcase their talent but also gave a major boost to sports tourism in the region. Welcoming participants from across India and abroad, he expressed confidence that they would carry fond memories of Himachal’s natural beauty and warm hospitality. He also announced a grant of Rs 50,000 each as encouragement to the Billing Paragliding Association and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) for their contribution to the successful organisation of the event.
MLA Lal said the unique geographical terrain and natural surroundings of Bir-Billing offered immense potential to establish it as a world-class adventure sports hub. He remarked that hosting a prestigious event like the Asia Mountain Cycling Series had further strengthened the region’s international identity. He added that such events inspired local youth to take up sports and simultaneously generate direct benefits for tourism, trade, transport and local employment.
President of Bir-Billing Paragliding Association (BPA) Anurag Sharma appreciated the coordinated efforts behind the seamless execution of the event. He congratulated all departments concerned, technical officials, volunteers members of the BPA and the local administration. He said the BPA would continue to promote adventure sports in Bir-Billing. He thanked the minister for attending the concluding ceremony of the event.
