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One of the toughest mountain bike races in the world, the Hero MTB Himalaya is in its 11th edition. The 2015 version has begun with over 130 riders participating. At the age of just 21, India's very own Devender Thakur is one of the race's youngest participants.
For a 21-year old, he has gained a lot of experience in cycling as he has previously participated in the national championships, UT MTB Shimla, MTB Kerela and in the Trails and Dust Manali. It has been just 4 years since he took to cycling professionally.
When asked about how he started cycling, he told MTB Himalaya, “I am riding since 2011. When I was in school, my friend used to ride on single trails and by watching him riding on single trails I found it adventurous and I was inspired by the thrill and adventure in it”.
“I will be riding UT HT PRO1”
The week-long race is a venture of HASTPA and Hero cycles which is now attracting top riders from across the world and the challenge of competing is increasing with every passing year.
The rider confirmed that he will be riding on the UT HT PRO1.
He said, “I will be riding UT HT PRO1, and it is like a machine on the climbs, it is very light weight, It is the best bike I have ever ridden.”
“I would love to ride Julien Absalon's bike BMC four-stroke” Devender elaborated when asked which bike is his dream bike to ride.
Devender has participated in 3 races (MTB Kerala, MTB Uttrakhand and MTB Shimla) in 2015 and has finished first on two occasions (MTB Shimla and MTB Kerela) while he finished second at the recently concluded MTB Uttarakhand. When asked about his inspiration for taking up the sport, he replied, “Julien Absalon inspires me the most, he is the greatest of all time. I just love to see him racing.”
He has also competed in the national championships in 2013 as well as 2014 where he bettered his 9th position finish in 2013 to a 3rd place finish in 2014.
However, Devender has his sights at representing India at the biggest Games of the world – the Olympics.
“My greatest achievement will be when I qualify for the Olympics,” said Devender.
The 'veteran' of Hero MTB Himalaya (it is his third attempt at the race) explained his training methods for the race, which he calls the toughest he has ever done.
“MTB Himalaya is the toughest race I have ever done. The level of riders is increasing year by year. It would be great if this race comes on UCI calender. This year it will be my 3rd attempt. I am training hard and have done high altitude training for this race. I feeling strong for this race,” when asked about his expectation from MTB Himalaya.
Devender Thakur has been flying India's flag high at Hero MTB Himalaya and he would be hoping it is third time lucky at the race for him.
