rajesh@hearld-goa.com
PANJIM: Laxmi Magar from Nepal, a three-time women’s mountain biking champion is all set to test her skills at the Goa International Mountain Bike Challenge being held from October 16 to 18.
The Queen of the Nepal mountain has been pedalling to glory with a lot of support from her family.
“My latest achievement–Manali-Khardungla Cycling Championship –saw a total of 63 participants compete against each other amidst challenging conditions and tough terrains. We crossed 500 kms in the high Himalayas in 9 days, pedalling all the way from Manali to the world’s highest motorable pass, Khardung La (18,380 ft) in Ladakh. The Manali-Leh-Khardungla highway stretches over 500 kms, and predominantly comprises of paved roads with stretches of sand, gravel and rocky terrains.
The 27-year-old Nepali rider prefers to compete in stage riding, like the Tour de France where the rider is put to the ultimate test.
“Women who dream to be a professional bike racer requires a lot of support. The stage races are meant for men but if women are allowed I will surely participate,” said Laxmi.
In Nepal, there are only a handful of women bike racers and one passionate cyclist like Laxmi has that dream.
Her Sherpa friend introduced her to her first ever mountain bike race exposing her to the mountain biking.
“I have no cycling coach in Nepal but I have put together a training plan on my own. Thanks to the several coaching websites.
“I am visiting Goa for the first time. I have not checked the track as yet but I am excited as Goa is a beautiful place and the participants look strong,” informed a beaming Laxmi.
Her diet consists of just dhal baht (rice, lentil soup and vegetables) and other Nepalese meals, nothing special.
Laxmi , who comes from a humble family has always brought smile on her parents face whenever she won a medal. This time too she is looking to compete against some top international riders.
“I am not familiar with the weather conditions but just know that it’s quite humid out here. I will need to inspect the track rather than being quite optimistic about this challenge,” said the modest Nepali rider.
