World's third toughest mountain biking race kicks off today in Shimla

Asia's oldest and world's third toughest mountain biking (MTB) race will begin today at the historic Ridge Maidan in Shimla.

Nearly 67 participants from 14 countries, including 11 men of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) will be taking part in the race which will conclude on October 3 in Dharmshala.

A total 650 kilometers would be covered by the participants.

The new route of the race is likely to be more challenging to the riders in terms of terrain. There will be an equal amount of uphill and downhill segments in the race. Looped circuits of approximately 60-70 km each day of the race will be covered by the riders.

On the way, the bikers would also meet 10,000 school children studying in different government schools and make them aware about the need to preserve the environment and adopt the habit of cycling daily for better health.