GANGTOK, Oct 11: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has highlighted the potential of remote villages to gain international recognition through adventure sports and sustainable tourism, citing the International Downhill MTB Series held at Zoom Rock Garden in Soreng district.
Organised by Zabarvan Extreme in collaboration with Zoom GPU, the series brought together riders from eight countries, including three participants from Sikkim, showcasing the region’s potential as an international mountain biking destination.
Describing Zoom Village as a remote but promising location, Tamang said its natural landscapes, trails and challenging terrain offered opportunities to promote mountain biking, adventure tourism and sustainable development.
“Events like these not only provide a platform for riders to showcase their skills and determination but also place our state on the international sporting map, while promoting tourism and creating opportunities for local communities,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that villages with distinctive natural attractions and local potential could gain international recognition while creating new opportunities for residents.
Tamang commended the organisers, participating athletes and others involved in the event, particularly the local riders who represented Sikkim. He expressed hope that the initiative would encourage more young people to take up adventure sports and strengthen the state’s profile as a destination for mountain biking and adventure tourism.
Wishing the participants success, he urged them to ride safely and keep the spirit of adventure alive.
