New

Route
Shimla to Shimla
500km

request you to print this 10 page B/W version.

It contains all the text of the 22 page version.
For more info visit www.mtbhimachal.com
are comitted to our eco responsibility. If you
As eco tourism promoters, we at HASTPA

are planning to print the RACE BOOK, we

74 Lower Bazaar Shimla +91 921 850 0122 Bengluru +91 973 179 9996 Nilesh Dhumal www.mtbhimachal.com
Shimla 171 001 +91 980 505 9080 Delhi +91 931 221 8252 S Singh Saluja
Himachal Pradesh +91 177 280 3250 T/F mtbhimachal@hastpa.org
INDIA Pune +91 982 241 8020 Trilok Khairnar
02

CONTENTS
3 HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL

4-6 The Race

7 Reaching Shimla

8-10 Bike Love

11 Rider Package

12 Important stuff

13 Checklist

14 Volunteer

15 Trippers & Supporters

16 Race Organizer

17 Partners

18-19 FAQ

20-21 Terms & Conditions

03

HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL

HASTPA and Himachal Tourism proudly

presents you the 6th edition of India’s premier
international mountain bicycling challenge,
the legendary Himalayan adventure event, the
HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL 2010.

This season HASTPA has revamped the whole

event with fresh new ideas. We have a whole
new route, less hostile conditions and better
management for an altogether new and
improved experience.

Ride through uncharted interiors, hike through

deep forests, soak in the sun and experience
nature all around. Pedal your way through
gut wrenching uphills, dangerous downhills,
village back roads, beautiful meadows,
thick vegetation, jeep tracks and taste real
mountain biking as you live through 8 days
of adventure racing covering 450 km/280m
miles , 3250 mt above sea level and take on
the Himalayan Challenge.

The adventure commences in Shimla as the

race is flagged off on October 23 (and the
registrations are done the day before). The
next 8 days put you through obstacles, test
your perseverance and strength so gear
up and prepare yourself because only the
toughest minds will survive and finish the trail
back to Shimla on October 30.

HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL has a unique

status of being one of the most beautiful and
rewarding experiences in the world. Once you
gather the courage to start the picturesque
locations and beautiful surroundings keep you
going through the extreme trails. At the end
of the day you experience the sheer triumph
and contentment of making it through the
gruelling slopes and crossing Himalayan
passes, pedaling high. Here people come from
all walks of life to share their passion for
adventure, mountains and bikes.
04

THE RACE

8 days
HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL is the first and
the only hardcore MTB endurance event of
the Himalayas. It is by far the toughest, most
action packed and extreme adventure event of
India. 8 days of breathtaking speeds, treach-
erous downhill’s and punishing uphills will
once again pump adrenaline this year.

22-30
The trail moves through the magnificent
mountains of the Himachal. Exquisite vistas,
gushing rivers and streams, rolling meadows,
OCT verdant forests and golden peaks lend the
HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL the unique status
of one of the worlds most beautiful rides.
2010 The adventure promises many surprises – the

3250
rustic survival course with brutal technical
sections pushes each rider to the edge of his/
maximum her limit. It is a true test of courage, stamina,
elevation endurance, strength and determination for
the riders. The sense of sheer triumph and

MTS contentment after one has conquered the trail

is just amazing. And then there are the finish

500
line battles at all levels of riding ability.
km day

60
HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL is an initiative
310

3
of HASTPA, & Himachal Tourism – bringing
miles together the Himalayas, the finest & tough-
est riders and you. And, we have a new route
KM this year – Shimla to Shimla – covering over
500 Km – reaching over altitudes of 3250 mt
through multiple stages, time trials, hike &
bike sections, and fast paced gravel roads.
Sainj 60 km day 2
Tanni 85 km day 4
Kullu
It’s a sign – The Himalayas are calling.
Jubber Sarahan
y1
da

25 km day 5
km

Day 8 + Awards
OCTOBER
60

Shimla

Registration
Start / Finish
58

Day 4

Day 6
Day 2

Day 5
Day 3

Day 7
Day 1
k m

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
da

Sirolsar
y8

Tattapani
maximum
70 km day 7 Chattri 55 km day 6 F S S M T W T F S
Lake
05

THE RACE

CATEGORIES HOW TO REGISTER

There are 5 categories_
1 Open Men Solo
2 Open Women Solo
3 Open Masters (age 40 and above) Solo
4 Teams of two riders
5 Noncompetitive (Comfort)
+ The minimum age of participation in any
category is 18 years.
+ Entries open on 1st march and close on
10th October 2010.
+ Each rider/team entering in HERCULES MTB
HIMACHAL 2010 is allowed to have supporters
(maximum 4 people). See the supporter
section (page 15) for more.
Each participant has to register independently. www.mtbhimachal.com/reg_bypost
Your registration is only considered a binding Complete it, figure payment and post it to_
document once your registration forms have HASTPA
been received along with the full fees. 74 Lower Bazaar
Shimla 171 001
To register do any one of the following_ Himachal Pradesh
a Go to the online registration form INDIA
www.mtbhimachal.com/reg_online
Complete it, figure payment and submit it.
b Download & print registration form from
06

THE RACE
RACE FEE

The 2010 entry fee are_

RIDER ENTRY SOLO TEAM COMFORT

NATIONAL INR 12000 INR 22000 INR 15000

INTERNATIONAL USD 600 USD 1400 USD 700

+ There is a 10% discount for early bird

entries till August 15.

+ There is a 50% discount for students and

bonafide Himachal Pradesh residents.

+ There is a 15% discount for group entries

of 10 solo riders. The team discount is not
applicable along with this.

PAYMENT PROCESS

a If registering online, you can pay through

PayPal using credit card.

b You can pay through demand draft or

cheque posted to HASTPA’s postal address,
along with the entry form in favour of
Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism
Promotion Association, payable at Shimla.

c You can wire transfer the fees to our bank

account. Your entry will be confirmed only at
the receipt of the Race Fee and completed
entry form. The Bank Account details are
HDFC Bank
The Mall
Shimla 171 001
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
Account Name
Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism
Promotion Association
Account Number
05241000010205
NEFT | RTGS | IFSC Code
HDFC0000524
07
REACHING SHIMLA
31˚6’12”n
77˚10’20”e
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
+ International riders should have a valid
passport, with minimum 6 months remaining
on the validity with a current Indian Visa.
+ Your country’s Indian embassy will be
able to provide information on the cost and
application process for the visa — apply for it
in advance.
+ International riders will have to make their
own travel arrangements to India. New Delhi
is the nearest international Airport and you
can easily commute to Shimla from here by
SHIMLA
Road and its a short pleasant drive. You can
check on the Internet for many travel offers &
figure out what works best for you.
+ Most airlines allow 45 pounds/ 20 kgs
check in luggage on flights. Inform the airline
while booking tickets that you will be travel-
ling with a dismantled bicycle box.
TRAVELLING IN INDIA
+ Within India, traveling by air, bus or rail, as
long as your dismantled bicycle is in a box it
can easily be accommodated in the cargo.
+ For transportation from Delhi or Kalka
(nearest Railway Station from Shimla) bus is
the best mode. You can get a Volvo or a state
bus, they will carry your bike in the boot or
on top of the bus for an additional INR 300
approximately.
+ HASTPA also has a dedicated travel desk
that can take care of your travel arrangements
if you require the services. We can arrange for
Volvo Bus services, with prior arrangements
for your bicycle box. Charges will be as per
transporters policy. Contact us at travel@
hastpa.org for more.
+ It is advisable to tag your bike with your
name, phone number and address.
08

BIKE LOVE WHAT BIKE?

Your bike must be at least an entry-level

Mountain Bike (MTB). Front suspension is
highly recommended since most of the trail
is broken roads, rocks, bumps and uneven
surface.

A hard tail front suspension or a short travel

full suspension bike is ideal. If unsure, e-mail
us at mtbhimachal@hastpa.org
09

BIKE LOVE IS YOUR MTB RACE READY?

It is extremely important that you ensure your

bike is in perfect working condition before you
start the race. Your bike is your lifeline during
the race.

If you are not mechanically minded get your

local bicycle dealer to service it and keep these
points in mind_

1 Check your wheel rims, if they appear

concave, cracked, or dented, replace them.
Check if wheels are true and spoke tension is
right.

2 Check Pedal and Crank.

3 Check that all bearings and quick release

skewers are in perfect working condition.

4 Check all brakes, brake pads, disks,

mounts, cables and replace if needed.

5 Check gears, cassettes, chain, shifter,

derailleurs, cables and replace if needed.

6 Check lube, thread lock, and tighten all nuts

and bolts.

7 Make sure all suspensions parts are in top

working condition.

8 Check tires, tubes, bike specific spares and

tool-kit.

9 Check cycle’s logistic computer to keep

track of distance and for GPS.
10

BIKE LOVE
TRAVELLING WITH YOUR BIKE

+ Partially dismantling your bike and then

packing it in a cardboard bike box is the
easiest and safest way to travel your bike.

+ Most bikes reach cycle shops in these

boxes and you can easily procure a bike box
from any local cycle shop. They will often be
able to help you fit it into the box otherwise
just follow these instructions_
1 Remove the pedals and seat post.
2 Take off the handlebars and tape them
under the down tube, you may need to
release your front brake cable, do not crimp
your hydraulic cables if you have disk brakes.
3 Deflate your tires and air shocks.
4 Take off the front wheel and leave the
back wheel in place.
Your Bike can now comfortably fit inside the
Bike Box.

+ You might have to make slight

adjustments and add additional packaging to
protect your bike.

+ If your bike has disk brakes remember to

put some cardboard between the pads to stop
the pistons from popping out.

+ During the race we flatten your bike boxes

in order to carry them all together. Make sure
you carry packing tape to put the box back
together.

+ Another alternative to bike boxes are

padded bike bags which are easier to handle
specially when using public transport.

+ Do NOT use wooden or other rigid bike

boxes they are expensive, heavy and too bulky
to be stored easily in the support vehicles.
11
RIDER PACKAGE
ACCOMMODATION
The entry fees includes accommodation
for the duration of the event and the
arrangement will be made as follows_
1 October 22 − Stay at a hotel on twin sharing
basis for all the riders in Shimla.
2 October 23 to October 29 − Arrangement
for all riders will be made in pre- erected camp
sites at stunning locations everyday.
+ Riders will be allotted camps on twin
sharing basis.
+ A double foam mattress and sleeping bags
will be provided. The sleeping bags are tagged
so that you get the same one everyday.
+ Provisions for showers, hot water and
washrooms will be made however this is the
Himalayas and riders should be prepared
to rough it out incase of difficulties in the
interiors.
+ Electricity (for charging phone and camera
batteries) will be available at some halts but
not all.
+ Each campsite will have a functioning mess
which will take care of the dining in a separate
enclosure.
+ Each campsite will have a separate
enclosure for bonfires.
3 October 30 − Stay at a hotel on twin sharing
basis for all the riders in Shimla.
NUTRITION
We will serve a mix of local and western
cuisines prepared by our specially trained
chefs. Our aim is to provide a high- carb diet
that is easily digestible at high altitudes.
Everyday the chefs prepare breakfast, lunch
and dinner. We work on a cyclic menu and
assure the food becomes fun for everyone.
+ Breakfast is at 7am and includes, eggs,
cornflakes, muesli, oats, bread, tea, coffee,
milk etc.
+ Lunch is distributed in between the
race stages. It is pre-packed and it includes
parathas, pasta, mashed potatoes, dry fruits,
chocolates, bananas, energy drinks etc.
+ Dinner time is 8am and includes an
assortment of vegetarian and non vegetarian
Indian fare and continental everyday.
+ Expect bar-be-que spread outs in some
evenings.
+ Bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages
will be provided. Also beer is served at
selected campsites.
+ Provision will be made for fruit juices, ORS,
glucose and energy drinks at halts during the
race stages.
LUGGAGE
+ At registration you will be provided with
a unique sleeve with your start number to
help mark your luggage. Limit the number of
luggage, as it is difficult to track during the
race.
+ You can drop off your bag at the
transportation truck on the morning of each
stage at the time and place as informed. Your
bags will reach before your arrival at each
campsite.
+ Your bike boxes will be taken care of &
remain in Shimla till October 30.
+ The organizers will not be responsible for
any lost or stolen items.
MERCHANDISE & OFFICIAL DVD
+ You will receive official race merchandise as
part of your package which will include_
1 T-shirt,
1 Jersey
1 Key-chain
1 Cap.
There are also winning and finishing jerseys.
+ HASTPA arranges for professional
photographers to shoot throughout the event.
You will be given an official race photographs
and video collection, compiled in an Official
DVD.
The Official DVD will be posted to each rider
after the event.
12
IMPORTANT STUFF
INSURANCE
Travel and Medical Insurance are mandatory
for all participants. HASTPA will not permit
any rider to participate otherwise. HASTPA
will also associate with an insurance company
to insure the riders for the duration of the
race. Last year INR 750 was the insurance fees
(not included in the entry fee).
These documents must be presented prior to
the race during registration.
DOCTOR’S CERTIFICATE
It is mandatory that you have a certificate
of fitness signed by a registered qualified
Medical Practitioner, certifying that you are fit
to participate in HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL.
One will only be allowed to ride after it has
been submitted at the registration desk prior
to the start of the race.
VACCINATIONS
We recommend you take prior vaccinations for
Tetanus, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A, etc.
Consult a doctor and confirm the need for any
other vaccination/medication required and
make arrangements for the same prior to your
departure for the event.
LIABILITY
The Organizers will not be responsible for any
damage to participants personal property
or for injuries during the event and cannot
be held liable for any cancellations, delays
or rerouting due to any environmental or
unplanned concern.
13

CHECKLIST
RIDING EQUIPMENT REGULAR STUFF

+ HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL is a hard-core + Please bring ample warm clothing for
extreme MTB outdoor adventure. Do not take campsites – the evenings and mornings can
it easy – professionals & amateurs riders must get really cold. This list is for everyone coming
come fully equipped. to the event, riding or not.
) Safety-approved Bicycle Helmet ) Thermals
) Sunglasses with high UV rated lenses ) A pair of warm gloves
) At least 3 pairs of shorts ) Arm, knee/leg warmers
) At least 3 wicking t-shirts or jerseys ) Jumper or fleece Trousers
) Cycling shoes ) Thick socks
) A Pair of Knee-Guards ) Trainers
) A Pair of Elbow-Guards ) Regular Medicines
) A light waterproof windcheater ) Specific medicines
) A pair of bike gloves ) Personal nutrition
) A warm hat to be worn under the helmet )
) Front and rear lights for night riding. )
) Lightweight head torch )
) Basic Tools for puncture, chain break etc. )
) Bicycle Specific Tool-kit )
) Sun-screen
) Good bike lock and long security cable
) Photocopies of important documents
(passport, insurances, list of emergency
contact numbers, visa, flight tickets etc.)
) A riding back-pack to carry liquids & tools
)
)
)
)
)
14
VOLUNTEER
You may not be able to ride HERCULES MTB
HIMACHAL 2010 for several pressing issues.
But you can still be part of the experience by
signing up for HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL’s
Volunteer Program.
HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL is an unique
opportunity to meet really interesting
people from all over the world. Also you get
to checkout some stunning locations and
extreme MTB action.Your primary task will be
to actively help the organizers with work.
Each volunteer will be entitled to_
+ Proper accommodation in campsites.
+ All meals during the race days.
+ Crew Cap and T-shirt.
+ Transport between stages.
+ Transportation of luggage.
+ Certificate and a memorabilia.
All this and more for FREE! There are no
participation charges for Volunteers. There are
only 30 spots available, hurry-up!
To register do any one of the following_
a Go to the online registration form_
www.mtbhimachal.com/vlntr_online
Complete it, figure payment and submit it.
b Download & print registration form from_
www.mtbhimachal.com/vlntr_bypost
Complete it and post it to _
HASTPA
74 Lower Bazaar
Shimla 171 001
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
Mention the area of expertise & why you want
to volunteer for HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL?
As we say – The Himalayas are calling.
15

TRIPPERS & SUPPORTERS

TRIPPERS

HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL 2010 welcomes

everyone. You can come independently and
join the event for a few days. You can get
to see some cool extreme-adventure action
in some awesome locations. Also live in the
campsites, get transported through the
stunning race stages and meet some really
interesting people. Customize when do you
want to join the event and for how many
days, and pay accordingly. The entry form is
same as the riders.

To find out about the fee, how to reach the

campsite (on your own)?, whether you can
bring your MTB on that day, and anything
else, e-mail us on mtbhimachal@hastpa.org.
Hurry up, as there are limited places per day.

SUPPORTERS

Riders/team can bring family, friends or

coach as supporter (maximum 4 people). The
entry form & fees for supporters is same as
the riders. The supporters are entitled to all
amenities at the race camps however they
will have to make arrangements for their own
transport between race camps incase they are
not riding and must enlist as an entry.

The supporters can provide services to their

rider(s) only at designated points, carry spares
and one extra bike but are not entitled to
transport the rider between stages. Transport
can be provided to the supporters on extra
payment basis.
16
RACE ORGANIZER
Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism
Promotion Association (HASTPA) was
initiated by a group of like minded people
from varied backgrounds and disciplines in
October, 2004. The motivating factor for
forming the organization was to promote
holistic adventure tourism in the state of
Himachal Pradesh, encompassing pertinent
issues of Sustainable tourism, such as
livelihoods, environment conservation,
community based tourism, etc. The natural
resource base of any given area is the most
valuable resource for its ecological as well
as economical development. In the modern
paradigms of development, tourism has
become an activity that addresses the issues
of community initiatives for sustainable
development. Himachal Pradesh with its
unique topography and culture is a great
attraction to tourists.
What also has to be considered in developing
a long term tourism sustainability plan is
the economic factors which motivate the
local communities in taking the necessary
steps to promote adventure based tourism
in a consistent, phased manner preserving
all that which today makes it an important
part of the itinerary of the tourist visiting the
region. To promote responsible tourism where
the local communities become the direct
benefactors of tourism in the state along
with the preservation of the ecological and
cultural environment, team HASTPA began
the process of planning for the promotion of
responsible tourism since 2004.
Himachal Pradesh has immense potential
as an adventure tourism destination. With
its huge treasure of Trans Himalayan terrain
and the lower foothills of the Himalayas,
Himachal Pradesh is a Hikers, Bikers, Kayakers
and a rafter’s delight. It is a dream come
true for adventure sports aficionados. The
state has an extensive network of natural
trails, which are best suited for the sport
of Mountain Biking and Hiking. HASTPA
adopted the sport of Mountain Biking as its
core promotional activity. Himachal Pradesh
is a popular destination amongst mountain
bikers from around the world. However except
for a few regular circuits most interiors of
the state have not been visited by tourists.
Team HASTPA aims to take tourists to these
interiors and pass the benefits to the native
communities. On the anvil are to develop
trails in the state and in the next five years
interconnect the whole state of Himachal
Pradesh with these trails.
HASTPA stands committed to the people of
Himachal Pradesh to promote sustainable
tourism and use Mountain Cycling as a
tool to establish it as one of the premier
destinations for cycling internationally. Future
plans include, developing trails indigenously
with the assistance and support of local
Panchayats and pass the benefits to the
native communities. A five year phased
approach interconnecting the whole state
through these trails should see Himachal
Pradesh emerging as a world leader for
Mountain cycling. With these aims in mind
Team HASTPA organized the first MTB
HIMACHAL cycling event in 2005. The motive
of the event was to showcase the immense
potential of Himachali trails to cyclists from
around the world. All the benefits the event
accrues goes to develop trails and promote
mountain cycling in the state.
HASTPA welcomes partners who have the
initiation towards adventure and are willing
to work with the team towards implementing
the dream of making Himachal Pradesh the
best destination for MTB trails in the world.
For more contact_
HASTPA
74 Lower Bazaar
Shimla 171 001
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
www.mtbhimachal.com
mtbhimachal@hastpa.org
+91 921 850 0122
+91 980 505 9080
+91 177 280 3250 Fax
17
PARTNERS
Hercules has been actively associated with
MTB HIMACHAL since its inception in 2005.
Hercules, India’s most preferred brand of
quality recreation bicycles has also been
associated with various other bicycling events,
promoting bicycling as a leisure fitness
activity. Hercules has an extensive portfolio,
ranging from funky urban bicycles to serious
all-out MTBs for all age groups.
Hercules and BSA, both are the flagship
brands of TI cycles, one of the leading bicycle
manufacturers in India. TI Cycles exports
across the global to Europe, South East
Asia and Africa. TI cycles is also associated
with Cannondale (N. America) and Bianchi
(Europe) bicycles, and distributes them in
India. HASTPA is proud to be associated with
TI cycles.
For more information on TI Cycles, contact_
TI Cycles of India
Post Bag No. 5, Ambattur
Chennai 600 053
Tamil Nadu
INDIA
www.ticyclesindia.com
+91 44 4209 3434
+91 44 4209 3457 T/F
MTB HIMACHAL is supported and promoted
by Himachal Tourism, the Department of
Tourism, Government of Himachal Pradesh.
As its long standing commitment to promote
adventure sports in the state, the depart-
ment has gone a long way in staging world
class adventure events in the state, like
The World cup Paragliding at Billing, India
cup Rafting Challenge on the Sutlej, Winter
Sports in Manali and many more. HASTPA as
an organization is honoured to be associated
with the department to holistically promote
the adventure sport of Mountain Biking in
Himachal Pradesh.
For more information on Himachal Tourism
and its activities, contact_
Himachal Tourism
Deptartment of Tourism & Civil Aviation
Himachal Pradesh
Block 28 SDA Complex
Kasumpti
Shimla 171 001
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
www.hptdc.nic.in
www.himachaltourism.nic.in
+91 177 262 5864
+91 177 262 5511
Incredible India is a promotional activity to
promote India as a global tourist destination.
It is an initiative of the Ministry of Tourism.
Incredible India has been supporting MTB
Himachal since its inception in 2005.
Incredible India has about 20 offices within
India & 13 offices abroad.
The Ministry of Tourism is the nodal agency
for the development and promotion of
Tourism in India, formulating national policies
and programmes, co-ordinating the efforts
and activities of Central Government Agencies
& State Governments, catalysing private
investments, strengthening promotional
and marketing efforts, providing trained
manpower resources, and conducting research
and analysis.
For more information on Incredible India &
Ministry of Tourism, contact_
Ministry of Tourism
Transport Bhavan
Parliament Street
New Delhi 110 001
INDIA
www.incredibleindia.org
contactus@incredibleindia.org
+91 011 2371 1995
+91 011 2371 0518 T/F
MTB HIMACHAL is proud to be associated
with the The International Mountain Bicycling
Association (IMBA). IMBA was founded
in 1988 by a group of California mountain
bike clubs. IMBA creates, enhances and
protects great trail experiences for mountain
bikers worldwide. In addition, IMBA actively
promotes responsible mountain biking,
supports volunteer trailwork, and improve
relations among trail groups.
IMBA has members in all over USA and 40
other countries. IMBA’s key projects and
endeavors include the Subaru/IMBA Trail
Care Crew, the National Mountain Bike Patrol,
IMBA Trailbuilding Schools, IMBA Epic Rides,
IMBA Trail Solutions, and a wide range of
educational efforts. IMBA works to keep trails
open and in good condition for everyone.
For more information on IMBA, and its
activities, contact_
IMBA
207 Canyon - Suite 301
PO Box 7578
Boulder, CO 80302
www.imba.com
info@imba.com
+1 303 545 9011
+1 303 545 9026 T/F
18
FAQ
01 When does the event take place?
+ October 22 to October , 2010.
02 Where is the event?
+ HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL takes place
in the mountainous state on INDIA, Himachal
Pradesh, in the lap of the Himalayas.
03 Where are the start and finish points?
+ HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL 2010 has a
new route. The event will start at Shimla and
the trail will come back and finish in Shimla.
04 What is the entry fee?
+ For riders from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka
and Bhutan the entry fee is INR 12,000 for
solo, INR 16,000 for comfort category, & INR
22,000 for team of 2.
+ For international riders the entry fee is USD
750 solo, USD 1000 for comfort category, &
USD 1400 for team of 2.
05 Are there any entry fee waivers?
+ 50% off for Indian students and bonafide
Himachal Pradesh residents.
+ 10% off if a group of 4 or more riders
registers together as solo or multiple teams.
06 Is the race open to only professionals?
+ It is open to both pro & amateur riders.
07 What is the distance of the race?
+ The trail is 500 Km /310 miles (8 days).
08 Is the race a team event or a solo event?
+ It is open to solo riders and teams of 2.
09 What are the different categories?
+ There are 5 categories_
1 Open Men Solo
2 Open Women Solo
3 Open Masters (age 40 & above) Solo
4 Teams of two
5 Comfort
10 Are there any mixed teams?
+ There is only one team category of
two members each. There are no separate
categories for mixed or masters teams etc.
11 Is there any cap on the number of riders?
+ HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL is open for the
first 120 riders with confirmed registration.
12 How does one register for the race?
+ To register online go to_
www.mtbhimachal.com/reg_online
+ To register by post go to_
www.mtbhimachal.com/reg_bypost
13 When is my registration confirmed?
+ A registration is confirmed only when we
receive the entry fee and full documents.
14 How do I send my registration entry fee? 3 Race essentials like, energy drinks,
+ Pay online through PayPal by credit card medical back up, service back up
+ Make a wire transfer to our account in_ (excluding spares).
HDFC Bank 4 Transport between stages if required.
The Mall 5 Official race merchandise.
Shimla 171 001
Himachal Pradesh 16 Is a doctor’s check up necessary?
INDIA + Yes, a certificate from a registered doctor
is mandatory - certifying that you are fit to
Account Name ride in HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL 2010.
Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism
Promotion Association 17 What about insurance?
Account Number + Where we deem that you do have your
05241000010205 own insurance, the organizers get everyone
NEFT | RTGS | IFSC Code involved with the race (riders, officials,
HDFC0000524 marshals, support staff etc) insured for the
+ One can draw a cheque/DD in favour duration of the race. This is directly done
of Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism by the insurance company, and all charges
Promotion Association, and send it to_ to be made to the insurance company are
mandatory and excluded from the entry
HASTPA
fees (last year INR 750 was the insurance
74 Lower Bazaar
fees). The insurance covers you for any injury
Shimla 171 001
sustained during the race.
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
18 Is signing the Indemnity necessary?
+ It is necessary & mandatory for everyone.
15 What does my entry fee include?
+ Your entry fees includes
19 What kind of surfaces would I be riding?
1 Accommodation from October 22 to
+ HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL is a race with
October 30, 2010
varied surfaces. Expect singletracks & double
2 All food and beverages, including
tracks of just mud and dirt, rocky sections,
bottled water and excluding alcoholic
small rivers, loose gravel and tarmac sections.
beverages.
19
FAQ
20 Are there any bike and hike sections?
+ Yes during some single-track sections you
have to bike and hike at some places.
21 How many stages are there everyday?
+ There are a 2–3 timed/race stages per day.
Plus there will be 1–2 free-ride sections.
22 Do I get some nutrition along the stages?
+ There are Nutrition Points at equivalent
distances during a race day. The nutrition
points can be along timed stages, the lunch
halt is always at the end of a timed stage.
23. What’s the typical race day menu?
+ Breakfast is at 7am and includes, eggs,
cornflakes, muesli, oats, bread, coffee, milk
etc.
+ Lunch is distributed in between the
race stages. It is pre-packed and it includes
parathas, pasta, mashed potatoes, dry fruits,
chocolates, bananas, energy drinks etc.
+ Dinner time is 8am and includes an
assortment of vegetarian and non vegetarian
Indian fare and continental everyday.
24 Is there any prize for winners?
+ HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL has a total
prize money of INR 6,00,000, which is
awarded to winners in respective categories.
25 How is my luggage transported?
+ Your luggage is transported everyday
during the race in the luggage van to the
camp. You are given luggage tags which
correspond to your riding number.
+ Your bike box will be collected at the race
start & it will be returned at the event’s end.
26. Where do I sleep everyday?
+ During the race days, accommodation is
in tents on twin sharing basis. Double foam
mattresses and sleeping bags are provided.
The sleeping bags are tagged so that you get
the same one everyday.
27 Can I charge my cell phone at the camp?
+ Yes.
28 Is hot water available at the campsites?
+ Yes, hot water is available at the
campsites for washing.
29 I want to bring my friends as a supporters
but they won’t be riding. Is this possible?
+ Yes you are welcome to bring along
your family & friends along for the race
as a supporters. The entry form & fees
for supporters is same as the riders. See
supporters’ section for more information.
30 I like the race, but I want to see it first. Is
there any possibility?
+ You can experience HERCULES MTB
HIMACHAL as a Volunteer (only 30 spots).
+ To register as a volunteer do any one_ 33 Do I get a route map & GPS co-ordinates?
a Go to the online registration form_ + Yes. You will get a map with exact
www.mtbhimachal.com/vol_online distances & also GPS co-ordinates for
Complete it, figure payment and submit it. the course. You also get a road book with
b Download & print registration form from_ instructions. The route is GPS mapped using
www.mtbhimachal.com/vol_bypost GARMIN.
Complete it and post it to_
34 Who organises the event?
HASTPA
+ The event is organised by HASTPA.
74 Lower Bazaar
Shimla 171 001
35 I need to know more. Where do I go?
Himachal Pradesh
+ If you have more questions, contact us_
INDIA
HASTPA
31 Is there any service back up available 74 Lower Bazaar
Shimla 171 001
during the race?
Himachal Pradesh
+ Yes there is. There would be 4 mechanics
INDIA
accompanying the race. Spares are also
available at cost. We recommend users of www.mtbhimachal.com
high end bikes to carry extra spares. Also one mtbhimachal@hastpa.org
needs should be able to make minor repairs Shimla +91 921 850 0122
by themselves. Service during the race is only +91 980 505 9080
available during freeride stages. +91 177 280 3250 T/F
Bengluru +91 973 179 9996 Nilesh Dhumal
32 Can I rent a dedicated support vehicle?
+ Where as HASTPA provides support Delhi +91 931 221 8252 S Singh Saluja
vehicles in cases of emergency, you can also Pune +91 982 241 8020 Trilok Khairnar
rent your dedicated service/support vehicle.
These cost INR 22,000 for the duration of the
race. We suggest 4 riders to pool in resources
to hire one back up vehicle.
20
TERMS & CONDITIONS
1 CONCLUSION OF CONTRACT
1.1
To participate in the HERCULES MTB
HIMACHAL 2010 you have to be at least 18
years of age at the start of the race in addition
to being both an experienced mountain biker
and in adequate athletic shape.
1.2
Receipt of your completed registration
presents a binding submission of your applica-
tion to the race organizer Himalayan Adven-
ture Sports & Tourism promotion Association.
Application is only possible by_
a Mailing a completed and signed
registration form (no faxes, no copies, no
emails)
b Registering online at
www.mtbhimachal.com
1.3
Your signature on the registration form or
your clicking of the appropriate field during
the online registration process indicates that
you accept and understand the entry condi-
tions and the race regulations. You acknowl-
edge and assure that you have read, accept
and will abide by all race regulations (PDF-
download available online at www.mtbhi-
machal.com ). Once you receive confirmation
your agreement with the organizers is binding.
1.4
Your signature on the registration form OR
your clicking of the appropriate field during
the online registration process indicates
that you accept and understand the entry
conditions and the race regulations. You
acknowledge and assure that you have read,
accept and will abide by all race regulations
(download pdf from www.mtbhimachal.com ).
Your contract with the race organizer becomes
a binding agreement once the race organizer
has received your fees and you have been sent
a confirmation of your registration.
1.5
The organizers are not responsible to provide
any services others than the ones mentioned.
Additional services, in particular with regard to
personal and technical support, are only owed
if agreements on such matters were reached
in writing ahead of the actual event.
1.6
For riders from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and
Bhutan, the registration fee for the event is
INR 12,000 for solo, & INR 22,000 for team
of 2. For international riders the entry fee
is USD 750 solo, & USD 1400 for team of 2.
There is a 50% off for Indian students and
bonafide Himachal Pradesh residents. There is
also a 10% off if a group of 3+ riders registers
together as solo or multiple teams.
1.7 3 PAYMENT
The organizers reserve any right to award
waiver of any kind on the registration fees to a If registering online, one can pay through
anyone. PayPal using credit card.
b One can wire transfer the fees to our bank
2 OBLIGATIONS account. Your entry will be confirmed only at
the receipt of the entry fees and completed
2.1 entry form. Our bank acount details are_
Each participant is responsible to ensure HDFC Bank
adequate physical and mental preparedness The Mall
and aptitude for the event, if necessary in Shimla 171 001
conjunction with medical consultations. Himachal Pradesh
Participants accept full responsibility for their INDIA
equipment and it being in good working order.
Account Name
A helmet needs to be worn at any time during
Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism Pro-
the race and has to meet international safety
motion Association
standards. Racers are obliged to heed all
directives and guidelines by the race organizer Account Number
and any instructions by race staff or any aides. 05241000010205
NEFT | RTGS | IFSC Code
2.2 HDFC0000524
Foreign nationals are advised to obtain all c One can send a cheque / DD, posted
necessary information from the respective along with the registration form, in favour
consulates. It is the responsibility of of Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism
each participant to make sure that they Promotion Association, payable at Shimla at_
have obtained valid travel authorizations
HASTPA
and documents, which may be required
74 Lower Bazaar
for participation in the HERCULES MTB
Shimla 171 001
HIMACHAL 2010.
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
21
TERMS & CONDITIONS
4 ACCREDITATION
Each participant receives the starter package
during the accreditation process only upon
presenting the following:
a Their confirmation of registration
b A picture ID.
If a participant cannot appear in person,
only a substitute carrying a written power
of attorney may pick up the starter package.
The starter package will not be mailed to the
participants.
5 TERMINATION OF CONTRACT BY
ORGANIZER
5.1
Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism may
cancel a contract with a participant, if_
a The participant violates the race regula-
tions or rules that are issued to the participant
prior to or during the event.
b The participant contravenes instructions by
the race organizers, their staff or aides.
c The participant interferes with / disrupts
the event in a lasting manner or presents a
threat to himself / herself or others.
5.2
The case of a cancellation by the race organ-
izer does not change their entitlement to the
prepaid race fees.
6 WITHDRAWAL BY THE PARTICIPANT
Withdrawal from event participation with full
reimbursement of paid race fees is possible
until 14 days of the day on which the payment
was received and only in writing by post.
7 TERMINATION OF THE RACE
In case the race was to be cancelled or
terminated due to an ‘act of God’ or a
participant does not show up at the race,
for reasons that the race organizers cannot
be held accountable for, the participant is
not entitled to any reimbursement of race
fees, or compensation, such as travel or
accommodation expenses from HASTPA.
8 DISCLAIMER
8.1
Participation in HERCULES MTB HIMACHAL
2010 occurs strictly at one’s own risk. The
liability of the event organizers – including
third party claims – is limited to deliberate
intent or gross negligence. This also applies
to any of the auxiliary persons or vicarious
agents that are deployed in the event by the
race organizer. Any contractual liability of the
race organizer for damages is excluded as long
as they do not involve or result from grossly
negligent or intentional acts.
8.2
The race organizers can not be held liable for
any default in services that relate to external
services by third parties for which the race
organizer only served as an intermediary
contact and which were clearly identified as
external services within the description of
event services.
8.3
The race organizers cannot be held liable
for any fault in services that are the result
of statutory provisions or official directives,
which prevent the participant from riding in
the event altogether or in part.
8.4
The race organizers can not be held liable for
participant’s lost or stolen clothing, valuables
or equipment. Participants are advised to carry
adequate insurance.
8.5
If a participant requires or enlists third-party
services, in particular search and rescue
services, the race organizers are indemnified
from payment. The participant further
authorizes the race organizers to collect any
charges.
8.6
By registering for the event, participants
acknowledge their consent with the
collection, circulation and publication of
event-related data, such as individual’s stage
times, placements and results as well as
photographs, movie and interview records,
without any remuneration to them.
9 ORGANIZATION
Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism
promotion Association (HASTPA), is a
registered society under the societies act
of 1860, working towards advocacy of Eco
tourism and its practices in Himachal Pradesh.
This document is an overview of HERCULES
MTB HIMACHAL 2010. For more contact_
HASTPA
74 Lower Bazaar
Shimla 171 001
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
www.mtbhimachal.com
mtbhimachal@hastpa.org
Shimla +91 921 850 0122
+91 980 505 9080
+91 177 280 3250 T/F
Published by Himalayan Adventure Sports &
Tourism Promotion Association (HASTPA)

Himachal tourism, HERCULES, IMBA, and Incredible India are registered trademarks of their respective owners
s
Copyright © HASTPA 2010
All rights reserved

HASTPA, and MTB HIMACHAL are registered trademarks of HASTPA, INDIA A

74 Lower Bazaar
Shimla 171 001
Himachal Pradesh
INDIA
www.mtbhimachal.com