Thousands Join ‘The Kora Challenge’ Cycling Event in Nepal
Over five thousand cyclists took part in the annual cycling event ‘The Kora Challenge’ on Saturday, touring more than 15 locations across Kathmandu and Lalitpur. The event started at Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and covered a distance of about 200,000 kilometers.
Event Details
Raj Gyawali, the organizer, said the event aims to build community and balance the cycling ecosystem by bringing everyone together. He mentioned that the event allows participants to cycle with athletes, exchange learnings, and enjoy entertainment. Participants can choose their competition distance, fostering relationships with others in the same category.
History and Growth
Started in 2011 with just 35 riders, the event has grown significantly. The Kathmandu ride always starts and ends in Old Patan, making a clockwise circuit of Kathmandu in 50 km, 75 km, 100 km, and a newly introduced 140 km Ultra distance. The event is held annually on the third Saturday of July.
Challenges and Participation
The shortest ride is designed for amateurs but includes brisk climbs and narrow alleys. The 75 km circuit is more adventurous, with steeper climbs and mountains. The 100 km circuit is the most challenging, occupying an entire day of cycling along hills. This year, Lalitpur Metropolitan City co-hosted the event, which has seen increased participation from women, rising from 11 percent to 22 percent in the last year.
Doubts Revealed
Kora Challenge -: The Kora Challenge is a big cycling event held every year in Nepal where many people ride their bicycles together.
Kathmandu -: Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal, a country that is right next to India.
Lalitpur -: Lalitpur is a city in Nepal, very close to Kathmandu. It is also known as Patan.
Patan Durbar Square -: Patan Durbar Square is a famous historical place in Lalitpur, Nepal, with old buildings and temples.
Raj Gyawali -: Raj Gyawali is the person who organizes the Kora Challenge cycling event in Nepal.
2011 -: 2011 is the year when the Kora Challenge cycling event started.
140 km Ultra distance -: 140 km Ultra distance is a very long cycling route in the Kora Challenge, where cyclists ride for 140 kilometers.
