The Himalayan Highest MTB Race (HHMR) has been launched in Ladakh. Taking place from July 2nd through to July 11, the route crosses three passes that are over 5000m. With those figures, the HHMR promises to be the highest mountain bike stage race in the world.
The race will start and finish in the small city of Leh, at 3500m. It is also the lowest point on the route. There are six stages through Ladakh (known as ‘little Tibet’) and riders will be surrounded by Himalayan peaks.
The HHMR also provides the opportunity to ride across areas usually not included into tourist itineraries. During the second stage, you will cycle throughout a national park which includes protected species, the Tsho Kar lake. The lake’s shores are a unique environment, which must be maintained and protected. Thanks to a special transit permit, all participants and organisers of the HHMR will have access to the national park, and will be responsible to respect the natural environment throughout the stage.
The fifth stage will follow the course of the Shyok River, and also required a special transit permit to be granted. This track has never been open to tourism before, and the HHMR’s participants will be the first ones to access it. The road will cross through villages that have never seen riders or tourists.
The race within the race
Within the race there is a race against the clock up the Kardung Pass (5602m). Possibly the stage to fear and anticipate the most!
Wheels Without Borders organises this event and supports the charity ‘Cycling for World Peace’ and their projects. In 2015 WWB will support the creation of a new hospital in Zanskar, collaborating with the charity ‘Associazione Nazionale Dentisti Italiani – ANDI’ (Italian National Dentist Association).
The HIMALAYAN HIGHEST MTB RACE – Ladakh 2015 represents a unique experience, whether participants would like to challenge their limits or simply enjoy the opportunity to cycle in the mystic land of Ladakh.
More details can be found on the event website.