In a thrilling finale to the Nepal-China International Mountain Cross Country Race Competition held in Pokhara, the Nepali team emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional prowess in the 40-km run.
Race Highlights:
The triumphant team, led by Suman Kulung, along with teammates Indrakala Nembang and Ramesh Limbu, clinched the first position, securing a well-deserved cash prize of Rs 360,000.
Notably, Shrebi Maharjan, Mahesh Tharu, and Basanta Tharu of Nepal secured the second position, earning a cash prize of Rs 288,000.
The third spot was claimed by Shreekas Rai, Tilak Sunuwar, and Keshari Thapa Magar, who received a cash prize of Rs 216,000.
Individual Excellence:
Homlal Shrestha, representing Nepal, dominated the 38-km race, seizing the first position and a cash prize of Rs 144,000.
Bed Bahadur Sunuwar, Tirtha Tamang, and Karan Wala secured the second, third, and fourth positions, earning cash prizes of Rs 108,000, Rs 54,000, and Rs 18,000, respectively.
Event Overview:
The Nepal-China International Mountain Cross Country Competition, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, Pokhara Metropolitan City, and Nepal Tourism Board, witnessed participants covering a challenging 40-kilometer course, incorporating running, cycling, and boating.
A total of 20 groups participated in the group competition category, symbolizing a commitment to shared prosperity through the event’s theme, “Race for Shared Prosperity.”
Dignitaries and Inauguration:
The event was inaugurated by Chief Minister of Gandaki Surendra Raj Pandey, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song, and Mayor of Pokhara Dhanraj Acharya.
Chief Minister Pandey expressed optimism about the competition’s role in elevating Pokhara’s global recognition and boosting sports tourism development.
Ambassador Song emphasized the event’s significance in strengthening the enduring bond between Nepal and China.
Positive Impact:
The Nepal China Dragon Boat Festival, previously hosted in Pokhara, has already showcased its influence in attracting more Chinese tourists to the scenic lake city.
This successful competition not only celebrated the spirit of athleticism but also served as a platform for fostering international camaraderie and promoting Pokhara as a premier destination on the global sports tourism map.