Malaysia’s Team VAMA clinched the top spot at the third National Adventure Racing Championship, which also marked a historic first for India — the country’s maiden Border Adventure Race. Held in the remote and picturesque Menchuka Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, the event brought international focus to the state’s emerging role in adventure tourism and strategic sports. The championship, hosted in the high-altitude region near the Indo-China border, concluded with Team VAMA’s resounding victory, securing their direct qualification to the prestigious Adventure Racing World Championship 2025. Their exceptional performance across multiple disciplines — including mountain biking, trail running, kayaking, rope work, and navigation — impressed both spectators and fellow competitors alike.
The event, organised by NthAdventure in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Department of Tourism, attracted a strong lineup of national and international teams, all eager to test their endurance across Menchuka’s challenging landscape. The valley’s rugged terrain and variable climate posed a real test of fitness and focus, making this a truly elite contest. Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who personally felicitated the winners, lauded the participants for their courage and determination. “Team VAMA’s performance is a true reflection of the grit and excellence that defines this sport. I am proud that Arunachal Pradesh hosted this landmark event,” he said. He also extended his congratulations to the local teams that performed commendably — Menchuka Cycling Club, which finished second, and Team Ziro, which came in third.
Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona emphasized the broader vision behind the event. “This is not just a race. It’s a movement to place Arunachal Pradesh on the global adventure map,” he said. He credited Chief Minister Khandu’s vision for the steady growth in border tourism and adventure-based events in the state. “Our goal is to promote eco-friendly tourism that also strengthens our border presence,” Sona added. The event also received international recognition with the presence of Heidi Muller, CEO of the Adventure Racing World Series (ARWS). Her attendance further highlighted the global significance of the race and the increasing credibility of India as a host for world-class adventure sports.
