'Pedal 2 Pakke' cross-country competition on April 24

A CORRESPONDENT

ITANAGAR: Altogether 30 cyclists ranging from professionals to amateurs from across the country will undertake a 124-km journey spanning eight hours while taking part in the first and longest single-day cross-country cycling competition of Arunachal Pradesh.

The State Tourism department along with the Itanagar Cycling Association officially launched the logos and merchandise for the 'Pedal 2 Pakke' cross-country marathon (referred to as an XCM) slated on April 24. On the occasion, a recreational cycling hike will also be organized to create awareness on environment preservation besides a cleaning drive.

The cyclists are expected to arrive at the State capital -- Itanagar -- on April 23. They will set off for the marathon early the next day from the Yupia tri-junction.

The director of 'Itanagar Cycling Meet', Ijum Gadi informed that 25 per cent of the route for the marathon is off-road and that around 75 per cent of it is on uphill tracks. At its highest point, the elevation reaches 7,000 feet."Gadi also informed that a total of 15 cyclists from outside the State -- including Assam, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Nagaland, and Karnataka -- will be participating in the competition. Three women cyclists have also confirmed their participation.

Besides, 15 other cyclists from the State will also be taking part in the competition. Among the participating State cyclists is Ahondo Menjo, winner of the 'XCO MTB Challenge' at Guwahati organized by the Assam Cycling Association in 2019.

Gadi also said that initially they had planned to invite more cyclists but the surge in COVID cases across the country has dampened those plans. He also explained that the official logos features the silhouette of a Nyishi man sporting the traditional 'byopa' (cap) riding a bicycle. He said that the logos represent the amalgamation of culture and eco-tourism.

Explaining the reason for selecting Pakke for the first such marathon, Gadi said, "Arunachal has many beautiful places; and Pakke is one of them. Pakke is quite accessible from the capital."

The competitors will get eight hours to reach Pakke to be considered for qualification.

On April 25, the organizers will also honour the fourth and fifth position holders and the 'most promising rider' of the competition apart from the podium prizes.

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