Pune: Eighteen-year-old Piyush Chavan, who used to ride bicycles on the hills of Pune, has come a long way. The city lad won the most craziest downhill race that took place in the mountain biking capital of India– Manali. Himachal Downhill Mountain Bike Trophy, the competition was held in Solang Valley on July 4 and 5.
Piyush won the race by defeating international competitors from countries like UK, Italy and Nepal. Gautam Taode has bagged the third place in this race which was supported by Big Rush and Freerider mountain bike magazine. The riders participating in this rally and the best ones are encouraged to participate in international races. This race was held at Ski Himalayas, Solang Ropeway and Ski Center Solang Valley in Manali in Himachal Pradesh, informed Piyush.
Vaishali Chavan, mother of Piyush told dna that Piyush was fond of bicycles and used to ride bi-cycle on nearby hills. She said that he has broken more than 25 bi-cycles while trying such adventures, since his childhood. Piyush only child to his parents has studied in DAV Public School at Aundh and finished his HSC from Wadia College of Commerce. He is pursuing his BBA from ISB &M school of technology.
Piyush told dna that this sport involves riding a bicycle down a steep hill over rocks, jumps and other obstacles and to cross the finish line in the minimum time in order to win the race. “National Downhill Races have been happening in India since the past three years on outskirts of Bangalore but this Himalayan Downhill Cup was conducted in Solang Valley, Manali for the first time. The course has seen riders competing from different countries like UK, India, Italy and Nepal and it is the most craziest downhill race that has happened here so far.”
Piyush and Gautam have been training together for past seven years. Every year, the duo wins national DH races. “By the success of this event we’re hoping to have many downhill races like this throughout the country in the coming years. The Indian riders are now looking forward to make their mark in the Asian Pacific challenge which is happening in the coming months.”
