Entries are now open for Yak Attack 2010, the only mountain bike stage race to take place in Nepal.
The race, organised by UK company, Extreme World Challenges takes in the Annapurna circuit and climbs to a height of over 5400m. For 2010 the event is back to its usual calendar slot of early March, (which is one of the best times for seeing the surrounding 8000m+ mountains), but the course has been lengthened to approx 420km with over 8000m of climbing.
Now starting in the very heart of Kathmandu, the race follows a mixture of back country roads and jeep track to traverse the Himalayan foothills on its way to the original race start point of Besi Sahar, where the real mountains begin.
After 9 days of riding (and 1 rest day) and stages ranging between 100k and 18k,the race finishes in Tatopani where competitors can enjoy a well deserved soak in the rejuvenating hot springs situated a short walk away from the hotel and a post race celebration. The final day incorporates a group ride to Beni and then transfer by bus to the lakeside tourist destination of Pokhara.
The entry fee includes all accommodation during the race, porterage of belongings between stages, all necessary permits, coach transfers from race finish back to Kathmandu, energy bars and drink courtesy of Torqfitness, airport transfers, post race party, finishers t-shirt/medal, stage and overall prize money (to be announced).
Full details available on www.yak-attack.co.uk