Asvin Khatri Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race 2024

Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race 2024: Crashes to Podium

After the successful debut with 60 racers in 2023, the second edition of Okhaldhunga Urban MTB race was held from Feb 3-5, 2024 in the scenic landscapes of Okhaldhunga district.

Okhaldhunga is a historically rich district and this premier cycling event celebrates untapped potential and promotes mountain biking in a region where such events are rare.

The race had two different categories XC (Cross Country) and DH (Downhill) where Elite Men, Elite Women, Junior (U-18), Master A (31-40) and Master B (41 and above) competed.

And two of Nepal Cycling School’s students secured places in podium, Second and Third by Asvin Khatri and Tshering Sherpa respectively.

Not only students, even our coach Prachit Thapa Magar secured third position on Elite Men Downhill category.

In this article, Asvin Khatri shares his experience from Crashing to Podium in Okhaldhunga Urban MTB race.

Redemption on the Trails: My Victory at the Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race

Returning to the Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race for the second time, I carried a memory of past failure and a burning desire for redemption. 

After a disappointing crash and missing out on the podium in my first effort, I felt this year’s race would provide a fresh start and an opportunity to prove myself again.

Warm Welcome at Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race 2024

Pre-Race Preparation:

I didn’t have time for training sessions in the weeks before the races because of college hours but I made it possible. I didn’t have a bike for the race, but Tony Dai gave me his bike for the race, and I was able to fit in training sessions. 

Taking my mental and physical strength to new heights. Every pedal stroke and sprint was fueled by a drive to conquer the difficulties that had previously stood in my way, thanks to my coach Laxmi Didi and all trainers from Nepal Cycling School. With Rad Rides funding my entry expenses, I was ready for the race. 

I precisely prepared the bike for the race, ensuring that it was finely tuned to handle the challenges that awaited me on the urban course of Okhaldhunga.

“With the start signal, I jumped into the fight motivated by a strong desire to change my story.”

Race Day Experience:

As the sun came on race day, nerves and adrenaline went through the air. Arriving at the place, I had a sense of déjà vu, with memories of my last attempt still fresh in my mind. 

With the start signal, I jumped into the fight motivated by a strong desire to change my story.

Navigating the course’s twists and turns proved to be as challenging as I remembered. Each obstacle tested my passion and pushed me to the point of exhaustion. 

During the race, I was guided by the South Asian Games’ silver medalist Nirav Shrestha dai. However, with every nerve of my being, I refused to let doubt sneak in. Instead, I found strength in the unfailing support of my fellow riders and spectators alike.

As the race approached its end, I found myself in a tight battle for place. 

With each drop of energy I had left, I pushed forward, unwilling to let tiredness slow me down. 

Crossing the finish line, I was overcome with a feeling of accomplishment unlike any other. 

This time, there were no crashes, only the wonderful taste of victory with a time of 5:04.13 and second place in the Junior category.

Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race 2024 Podium, Downhill Junior Category

Post-Race Reflection:

In the aftermath of the race, I couldn’t help but reflect on my journey to this point. 

The path to redemption had been filled with struggle and disappointments, but in the end, the victory was much more meaningful. 

As I stood on the platform, taking in the light of my success, I realized that this was only the start of a new chapter in my mountain biking career.

At Last…

Participating in the Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race for the second time was a journey of self-discovery and resilience. 

It was a reminder that no matter how many times we fall, we have the power to rise again, stronger and more determined than ever before. 

With passion as my guide, I eagerly anticipate the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead, knowing that each obstacle is merely an opportunity in disguise.

Okhaldhunga Urban Downhill 2024 – Full Race Run [ Crashing to Podium]

Surviving Crashes during race to securing a place in Podium.

Check out Tshering’s Full Race run at Okhaldhunga Urban MTB Race 2024 (Downhill)

Tshering Sherpa’s Full Rae Run at Okhaldhunga Urban Downhill Race 2024 [Crash to Podium]

Okhaldhunga Urban MTB 2024 – Race Results

Elite Men Downhill Race Results

NamePosition
Rajesh MagarFirst
Nirav ShresthaSecond
Prachit Thapa MagarThird

Elite WoMen Downhill Race Results

NamePosition
Nishma ShresthaFirst
Usha KhanalSecond
Anisha GurungThird

Junior Downhill Race Results

NamePosition
Nima SherpaFirst
Asvin KhatriSecond
Tshering Pasang SherpaThird

Masters A Downhill Race Results

NamePosition
Swaichhik Karki(sway)First
Indrajit Angbuhang LimbuSecond
Kunjani RaiThird

Masters B Downhill Race Results

NamePosition
Harka LamaFirst
Bikash MaharjanSecond














































































Nandahang Wanem
Third

Elite Men XCO Race Results

NamePosition
Cory WallaceFirst
Suraj RanaSecond
Himal TamataThird

Elite WoMen XCO Race Results

NamePosition
Usha KhanalFirst
Indra Kala NembangSecond
Anisha GurungThird

Junior XCO Race Results

NamePosition
Dipsagar TamangFirst
Nima SherpaSecond
Joby StewardThird

Masters A XCO Race Results

NamePosition
Santosh RaiFirst
Anil ParajuliSecond
Prashant ShresthaThird

Masters B XCO Race Results

NamePosition
Bikash MaharjanFirst
Sanjib BasnetSecond
Bibhusan BistaThird

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