Gulmarg is set to host its first international downhill mountain biking competition as Zabarvan launches the MTB Downhill – Zabarvan Legends Series starting October 9.
The event will feature top riders from India and countries including Australia, Taiwan, the Czech Republic, Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia.
Organizers said that the series marks Phase Three of their long-term plan to develop India’s mountain sports community.
Phase One, they said, focused on producing local gear to cut costs and improve safety, while Phase Two supported scouting and training athletes.
Notable Kashmiri athletes backed by Zabarvan include Zubair Ahmad Lone, training for the 2026 Winter Olympics as a snowboarder, and Adil Teli, a Guinness World Record holder in long-distance cycling, set to represent India at the upcoming UCI event in Australia.
Phase Three, as per organizers, aims to blend grassroots participation with international competition to inspire young talent and raise the standard of Indian riders.
“After over a year of consultations with governments and sponsors-including Indigo, Spoke Hub, Kirloskar Ferrous, and Span Foundation-we are launching the Legends Series as part of our second anniversary celebrations,” said organizers.
The series will span three locations-Gulmarg, Shillong (Meghalaya), and Guwahati (Assam)-each offering distinct geographical challenges along with local culture, cuisine, and folklore.
The Gulmarg race will cover a 2.5-km trail, Draksheen Vaar, demanding high fitness and technical skill.
Riders will use the Gulmarg gondola to return to the start for quick recovery and repeat runs.
Organizers stated that the event aims to attract global riders while boosting tourism in Kashmir, showcasing Gulmarg as a hub for adventure sports and highlighting the synergy between sport, culture, and local economies.
