Arunachal: Malaysian team wins India’s first border adventure race at national championship

The third National Adventure Racing Championship, which also marked India’s first-ever Border Adventure Race, concluded in Menchuka, Arunachal Pradesh, with Malaysia’s Team VAMA emerging as the overall winner. The team’s victory earned them a direct qualification to the Adventure Racing World Championship 2025.

Held in the high-altitude valley of Menchuka near the Indo-China border, the event drew national and international participants, spotlighting Arunachal Pradesh as a rising hub for adventure tourism. 

Chief Minister Pema Khandu presented the winners with their awards, praising Team VAMA’s endurance and determination. “Their remarkable performance was a true testament to grit,” said Khandu. He also congratulated local teams — Menchuka Cycling Club, which secured second place, and Team Ziro, which finished third.

The race, organised by NthAdventure in partnership with the Department of Tourism, challenged competitors with a mix of mountain biking, trail running, kayaking, rope work, and navigation across rugged terrain.

Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona credited CM Khandu’s sustained focus on promoting border and adventure tourism for Menchuka’s growing appeal. He also acknowledged the support of Heidi Muller, CEO of the Adventure Racing World Series, whose presence underscored the event’s global significance.