Arunachal makes sporting history with grand National MTB event in Roing; Uttarakhand, Maharashtra dominate day 3

Roing in Arunachal Pradesh witnessed high-octane sporting action on Saturday, February 14 as riders from Uttarakhand and Maharashtra stole the spotlight on the third day of the 22nd National Mountain Bike (MTB) Championship 2026, marking a historic moment for the northeastern state as it hosts a national-level mountain biking event for the first time.

Cyclist Avni Daryal of Uttarakhand clinched gold, while Maharashtra’s Bhosale Vitthai delivered a stellar performance to top the podium in his category. Sayyed Muhammed Mazin of Kerala, along with riders from the Indian Air Force including Ravina, Kanchan and Thotmachan, also secured podium finishes in fiercely contested races.

The championship, being held from February 12 to 15 at Roing in Lower Dibang Valley district, has drawn a record participation of 512 riders from across the country. Teams from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force are also competing, adding to the championship’s competitive intensity.

Speaking to the media, Roing MLA and President of the Arunachal Cycling Association, Mutchu Mithi, said the event has firmly placed Roing on the national and international sporting map as an emerging destination for mountain biking. He emphasized that the championship is being conducted under strict anti-doping protocols, with the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) carrying out random testing to ensure fair play and transparency.

The competition is unfolding on a world-class, technically demanding MTB track carved out amid Roing’s rugged terrain. The Kebali Downhill trail, in particular, has emerged as a major highlight, challenging riders with its steep descents, sharp turns and unforgiving natural obstacles.

The 22nd National MTB Championship is being seen as a landmark sporting milestone for Arunachal Pradesh, not only showcasing elite cycling talent but also promoting adventure sports tourism in the scenic Lower Dibang Valley region.

With two more days of competition remaining, the championship continues to draw attention for its scale, competitive spirit and the successful execution of a national sporting event in one of India’s most picturesque mountain landscapes.