Gulmarg: Zabarvan announced the MTB Downhill – Zabarvan Legends Series, India’s first international downhill mountain biking event, to be held in Gulmarg from October 9 to 12. The event will feature riders from India and abroad, including athletes from Australia, Taiwan, the Czech Republic, Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia.
At a press conference, a Zabarvan official said the series marks the launch of Phase Three of the organization’s plan to unite the mountain sports community in India. “Zabarvan started with the goal of bringing together the fragmented mountain sports community across India. Phase One focused on research and development of gear within India to reduce costs and improve safety. Phase Two involved scouting, training, and sponsoring local athletes,” the official said.
The official mentioned athletes supported by Zabarvan from the Valley, including Zubair Ahmad Lone, preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics as a snowboarder, and Adil Teli, a Guinness World Record holder in long-distance cycling, who will represent India at the UCI competition in Australia.
According to KNS, He said Phase Three includes conducting grassroots events infused with international competition to encourage local participation and raise the level of Indian riders. “After one and a half years of discussions with central and state governments, and with support from sponsors Indigo, Spoke Hub, Kirloskar Ferrous, and Span Foundation, we are launching Phase Three with the Zabarvan Legends Series. The series also coincides with Zabarvan’s second anniversary,” he added.
The official described the series as spanning three locations: Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir, Shillong in Meghalaya, and Guwahati in Assam. “Each location introduces unique geographic features and challenges for riders while providing glimpses into local culture, cuisine, and folk tales,” he said.
He outlined the Gulmarg trail, Draksheen Vaar, as a 2.5-kilometer course requiring high levels of fitness and technical skill. Riders will use the gondola ride back to the top for recovery and additional practice runs.
The official acknowledged support from the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Shah, and the CEO of Gulmarg Development Authority, Tariq Hussain Naik. He also thanked the Wildlife Department, Forest Department, JKCC Corporation, ATV Association of Gulmarg, and individuals including Hassan Lalla, Zubair Ahmad Lone, and Farhat Naik for helping secure clearances.
He added that the local team and enthusiasts built the downhill trail and that race marshalls, volunteers, and medics have been recruited locally. The official also thanked sponsors and all involved in making the Zabarvan Legends Series possible.
The event is expected to attract national and international riders while connecting sport, tourism, and local culture in Gulmarg.(KNS).
