October 08, 2014 (Shimla, India) – Canadian XC MTB Marathon Champion Cory Wallace (Kona) is known for his globetrotting as he travels from one exotic locale to another to contest various off-road stage races in sometimes remote settings. He recently won the six-stage 10th Hero MTB Himalaya event in India. Visit the event website here.

Describe what it was like riding in northern India?
Cory Wallace: The experience of riding a mountain bike around the hills of Himachal Pradesh was spectacular. Riding on winding twisty roads hugging the sides of the mountains with amazing views of the surrounding landscapes was amazing. Often we would be riding with cliffs surrounding us on both sides leaving us feeling like mountain goats. Riding through small villages and through hidden valleys brought us close to the mountain people up there and their unique ways of life. In my mind there is no better way to see this country then from a bike saddle.

What is the potential for riding in the area?
CW: Himachel Pradesh has the perfect terrain to host world class cycling events. The terrain is steep, the people are friendly and there appears to be tons of riding options. Including more singletrack and technical riding would go a long ways in attracting more riders from abroad. There were rumours of a nice ridge ride and then trail ride coming of Jalori pass which would surely leave a lasting impression in us riders eyes! Hosting events like MTB Himalaya is the perfect way to grow the sport up here.

How was the event organization?
CW: Interacting with the organizers of MTB Himalaya was a pleasure. They have a great passion for what they are doing and are true lovers of the sport. Always positive and open to feedback, it is evident they are keen to build one of the best bike races in the world and that they will do whatever they need to to make it a reality. As a brand ambassador for MTB Himalaya I am going to make sure to share my experiences from the race and encourage others to come out and take part in what is truly a great event. Seven days of riding and camping through the Himachel Pradesh is the perfect way to explore this incredible part of India and its culture.

What will make you keep going back and why would you tell your friends to check it out?
CW: The MTB Himalaya is a growing event. It is exciting to see the potential for the race and the efforts the organizers are putting in. As seasoned pro it is important to have a good clearly marked course, lots of high energy race food and nice camps. This the race already has accomplished this. There are some small changes which will need to occur to make this a truly world class event but they are minor and they will only make this already great sporting event into something special in the future.

Congrats on your win and good luck with your next adventure.
CW: Thanks.