2nd RSR MTB Challenge

Head down to Riverside Springs Resort this April for some mountain biking action and fun under the sun in the 2nd RSR MTB Challenge organized by Switchback! Acclaimed international DJs and hosts at the after-party are sure to make your adventure-filled weekend an unforgettable one.

Sun, beach, greenery, swimming pool, groovy music, and tropical vibes. This is no Mediterranean island we’re talking about, but the little oasis of Riverside Springs Resort, Kurintar, where the 2nd edition of the very successful RSR MTB Challenge is going to take place. Organized by Switchback, a mountain biking company, the race builds on the awesome race course—a mix of natural and manmade trails—from last year’s event. As one of very few races sanctioned by the Nepal Cycling Association, RSR is looking sharp and bright for all mountain biking lovers and party-goers alike.

The trails have been designed by some of Nepal’s top mountain bikers and cater to riders of all levels. With popular races like Lamatar MTB and Palpa Urban Downhill under their belt, Switchback ensures RSR MTB is executed flawlessly, and is as challenging and fun for the participants as it is entertaining for the audience. Further, managed by party mavericks Eleven11, the high energy after-party by the pool, featuring international sensations like AMD and FC along with DJ Ranjan, will be the perfect icing on the cake. DJ Ranzen will also be spinning the deck, and the Boyz Next Door will be manning the stage throughout the night. Such a melange of adventure, relaxation, and premium parties are unheard of in Nepal, and Switchback for sure is on the game.

Situated three hours west of the capital, Kurintar is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to escape the grind. When you combine a weekend full of adrenaline and serious biking action, you get nothing short of an awesome experience. Not sure about racing? No worries; bring your family and friends along for a fun-filled weekend to see something new and jive to upbeat music.

The impressive turnout of participants and spectators witnessed last year, along with the excitement of the race this time around, indicate only one thing— 2nd RSR MTB Challenge will be one heck of a showdown!

Race Course

Switchback is eager to bring quality mountain biking races to rookies and professionals alike. Though folks at Switchback are working hard to make the trails tougher this time, there always are what are called chicken runs, which are easier and alternative dodge routes that participants can take, but at the expense of time.

The trail is exciting with different challenges dotted along the way. These include two pump tracks (trail bumps); two rock gardens (with natural rocks physically carried to the trails!); a bridge (a tiny wooden pass demanding unfaltering balance); a wooden berm (Nepal’s first and only!); a beach (along Trishuli’s sandy shores), etc. There are plenty of uphills, downhills, and flats that run through serene village settlements, woods, and not to mention, RSR’s azure pool.

The race takes place on a 3.8 km circuit for Elite Men and Women categories, and 3.4 km for other categories. The number of laps varies by category.

Categories and Race Fees

RSR MTB Challenge strives to bring out the mountain biking spirit among people of all age, gender, and background. Bearing the diversity in mind, Switchback has set 6 categories to choose from, and especially encourages women and kids to get their feet wet!

Men’s/Women's Elite: The best of the best. This race is for elite riders, and runs over a challenge lap system. 7 Laps Men’s / 5 Laps Women's under the hot Kurintar sun! Entry fee: Rs.1,500

Open Women: One for the ladies new to cycling, or someone who just wants to have some fun. This will be a 5-lap race. Entry fee: Rs. 500

Open Men: This race presents an easier course for recreational riders and those with less experience. A good place to challenge your friends and have some fun. Open Men’s category will have to do an extra lap than their Women counterparts. Entry fee: Rs. 750

Junior: For young, new, and upcoming riders below the age of 18. 5 Laps. Entry fee: Rs. 500

Masters: For the senior riders among us who still love to race. You must be above the young age of 40 to race in this category! Entry fee: Rs. 750

Corporate/Team Race Challenge: First time in Nepal that we are hosting this fun relay-style mountain bike race, where teams will have to complete laps of our special cycling obstacle course.

Kids Formula Race: One for the little tots. Below 12 years old. The race will be held over a mini track with jumps, pumps, and obstacles.

Prizes

Staying true to their spirit in promoting mountain biking, Switchback is offering generous prize money and gifts to winners of each category.

Men’s Elite: Rs. 25,000 (Winner); Rs. 20,000 (1st Runner-up); Rs. 15,000 (2nd Runner-up)
Women’s Elite: Rs. 15,000 (Winner); Rs. 10,000 (1st Runner-up); Rs. 5,000 (2nd Runner-up)

Podium finishers of other categories receive exciting gift hampers.

Arrangements

This is a one-day event, and transportation to and from RSR will be provided by the organizers (included in the race fee). The bus leaves from Sorhakhutte (Kathmandu) on Friday at 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., so do make sure to get there on time! The race will take place on Saturday, and will be followed by an after-party in the evening. The bus back to Kathmandu departs from RSR at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday. Participants who plan to reach and depart on different schedules will have to arrange their own transportation.

If you want to stay back for the after-party (definitely recommended!) you can book rooms at the relaxing and welcoming ambience of the resort, or other guest houses nearby. (RSR is just a few kilometers away from the famous Cable Car to Manakamana, so the options to stay are aplenty.) In this case, participants would have to arrange their transportation back.

Lunch on race day is included in the entry fee.

After-party

When the race is done, and the sun has dipped, head over to Riverside Spring Resort’s poolside for an epic after-party managed by Eleven11, known to host some of the funkiest parties in town! International emcees AMD and FC will be hosting the after-party. The duo tours globally, hosting events, and are known for their energetic performance. Expect fist-pumping, foot-tapping music by DJ Ranzen, as well, and dance to soulful tunes by the Boyz Next Door. This is no show you want to miss! So, expect a crazy crowd, and a night full of awesome music with chic company.