Aizawl plays host to India’s First Urban Downhill MTB Event
Aizawl: In a landmark event for extreme sports in India, Red Bull and Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) recently concluded the Red Bull Urban Downhill Tlang Ruam 2024, the country’s inaugural urban downhill mountain bike (MTB) competition. Set against the scenic hills of Aizawl, the thrilling competition attracted participants from across Asia, showcasing their skills on a challenging, fast-paced track that captivated audiences.
The event’s highlight was Taiwan’s Dan C, who emerged as the winner, securing his position in the prestigious Red Bull Cerro Abajo competition in South America. His performance set a high standard for the debut of urban downhill biking in India, inspiring local and international athletes alike.
This event marks the first time that urban downhill mountain biking—a sport involving high-speed cycling down intricate city landscapes—has been introduced to Indian audiences on a large scale. The event’s success hints at a promising future for extreme sports in India, particularly in regions with terrain ideal for adventure sports.
A Collaborative Success Between Red Bull and Hyundai
Hyundai Motor India Limited, in partnership with Red Bull, brought the event to life, blending their shared passion for innovation and adventure. The Hyundai CRETA, the official vehicle of the event, played a crucial role by supporting competitors and crew across the event’s unique track. Hyundai’s involvement symbolizes the brand’s “Progress for Humanity” mission, which aims to inspire meaningful experiences through dynamic collaborations.
“We are thrilled to have partnered with Red Bull to bring this exhilarating global sport to India for the first time,” remarked Virat Khullar, Group Head, Marketing, Hyundai Motor India Limited. “This event aligns perfectly with Hyundai’s vision of creating experiences that inspire and move people. By showcasing the Hyundai CRETA within this energetic atmosphere, we’re underscoring the power of adventure, creativity, and mobility. Our partnership with Red Bull will ignite a passion for extreme sports among a new generation of thrill-seekers.”
Paving the Way for Extreme Sports in India
The Red Bull Urban Downhill Tlang Ruam competition signals the growth of a new outdoor sports culture in India. Known for pushing boundaries, Red Bull continues to expand India’s extreme sports landscape, bringing international adventure sports events closer to Indian enthusiasts. Tomáš Slavik, a legendary mountain biker and UCI 4X World Champion, also graced the event.
“The Red Bull Urban Downhill competition reflects both Red Bull and Hyundai’s commitment to developing regional talent and promoting extreme sports in India,” said Slavik.
A Boost for Mountain Biking in India’s Northeast
The choice of Aizawl for this groundbreaking event highlights the Northeast’s potential as a future hub for adventure sports in India. With mountain biking gaining popularity across the region, local enthusiasts and athletes now have a high-profile platform to showcase and refine their skills. The Northeast’s unique topography makes it a natural setting for sports like urban downhill biking, and events like Tlang Ruam 2024 could accelerate interest in similar competitions across India.
Hyundai Motor India Limited, through this collaboration, underscores its mission to push the limits of customer experiences and support the development of new sporting avenues in India. Initiatives like these align with Hyundai’s “Progress for Humanity” philosophy, fostering experiences that resonate both personally and communally.
