The humid air clung to my skin as I navigated a particularly tricky switchback on the Ayer Estate Rubber Plantation trail. Being a mountain biking race organiser from Nepal, I was no stranger to challenging terrain. However, Enduro Lanka in Sri Lanka was testing my skills in new and exciting ways. The vibrant greenery rushed by in a blur, providing a striking contrast to the rugged Himalayan landscapes I was accustomed to back home.

As the manager of two annual events in Nepal—the Yak Ru Enduro and Pokhara Enduro—I’ve immersed myself deeply in mountain biking, both as an organiser and participant. However, competing in the Enduro Lanka race, part of the Asia Enduro Series, offered a fresh perspective on race organisation and introduced me to the vibrant mountain biking culture in Sri Lanka.

First Impressions

Upon landing in Sri Lanka, I was immediately struck by the country’s beauty and cleanliness. The well-maintained roads leading from the airport were lined with lush tropical vegetation, a stark contrast to the often dusty and rugged terrain of Nepal. The hospitality began before I even left the airport, with the Sri Lankan Airlines crew providing a warm welcome that clearly indicated the nation’s dedication to promoting tourism through events like Enduro Lanka.

The race was held in the picturesque Ayer Estate Rubber Plantation in Padukka, a private estate that graciously allowed the event to take place under strict environmental guidelines. As we arrived at the venue, I was impressed by the meticulous organisation. Signs clearly marked the race routes; there were ample aid stations with plenty of water and refreshments, and volunteers in bright t-shirts were stationed at critical points, ready to assist.

The local community’s support was evident from the start. Many volunteers came from the local cycling community, and their enthusiasm was infectious as they guided us through registration and briefed us on the course. One volunteer, a fine young man named Darshan, stood out with his dedication and his eagerness to help visiting riders. He foregoes participating in the race to help ferry riders up and down the mountains using his 4WD truck. This level of community involvement is something I aspire to emulate in my events back in Nepal.

Trails and Challenges

The trails at Enduro Lanka were both challenging and beautifully designed. During the practice day, I found myself on a particularly memorable section—a technical rocky descent that twisted between trees and slippery rocks. The red slippery soil, so different from the loamy terrain I was used to, required a complete adjustment in riding technique.

The humidity added an extra layer of difficulty, making even the climbs feel more strenuous. I remember reaching the top of one climb, my jersey soaked through, and sharing a knowing look with Mr Koh, a fellow competitor rider from Japan. Despite the language barrier, we both burst into laughter, acknowledging the shared struggle and joy of the sport.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the event came on the final day after the race. The race participants invited local children to try out their bikes. I’ll always remember the sight of a small boy, at most ten years old, doing pleasing stunts wearing just his flip-flops. The young riders’ natural talent and unbridled enthusiasm hinted at a bright future for mountain biking in Sri Lanka.

The event’s cultural elements were equally memorable. One evening, we were treated to a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance. The rhythmic drumming and the dancers’ colourful, swirling costumes created a mesmerising spectacle. Later, as we sampled local delicacies like Katta Sambol and fragrant fried rice, I found myself in a lively discussion with fellow racers from Oman and around other parts of Asia, exchanging ideas and experiences.

More Sustainable Wing

Attending Enduro Lanka was an eye-opening experience in several ways. However, what impressed me the most was the organisers ‘ dedication to promoting green initiatives. While the heart-pounding races and the bond with other mountain bikers were thrilling, a more meaningful message stood out: we need to focus on sustainability.

The collaboration between the event planners and SriLankan Airlines caught my attention. This wasn’t just about sponsorship; they joined forces to motivate the airline’s customers and the public at large to adopt eco-friendly habits and play a part in creating a greener world.

Synonymous with exceptional service, the SriLankan Airlines has taken a big step to be more friendly. The airline has brought in new eco-friendly items for its Business Class passengers. These include pillow covers and headrest covers (antimacassars) made from recycled PET plastic.

According to the carrier, these thoughtful new items don’t just make passengers more comfortable. They also show that the airline wants to cut down on its carbon footprint.

Seeing such initiatives firsthand was inspiring. It served as a reminder that sustainability is more than just a buzzword; it is a tangible goal that can be integrated into our daily lives and experiences. The eco-friendly practices of SriLankan Airlines at Enduro Lanka were a testament to what can be accomplished when organisations take responsibility for their impact on the environment. This conveyed a powerful message that resonated with everyone present, reinforcing the idea that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a greener future.

For me, this experience was a combination of my passion for mountain biking and a newfound appreciation for the strides being made towards sustainability. It emphasised the role we all play in preserving our environment and the importance of supporting and promoting green initiatives in all aspects of life.

Lessons and Reflections

Participating in Enduro Lanka provided valuable insights that I plan to incorporate into the Yak Ru Enduro and Pokhara Enduro. The seamless integration of the event with the local environment at the Ayer Estate has inspired me to seek similar partnerships with private landowners in Nepal, potentially opening up new, exciting venues for our races.

The dedication of the organisers, particularly Shakti Gunasekaran, was truly inspiring. His attention to detail, from the clear course markings to the well-organized feed stations, set a new standard for me. I plan to implement a more comprehensive volunteer training programme at my events, ensuring that every aspect of the race runs as smoothly as it did at Enduro Lanka.

As I boarded my onward flight, my mind was buzzing with ideas. Enduro Lanka was more than just a race; it was a master class in event organisation and community engagement. The experience reinforced the power of mountain biking to bring people together across cultures and borders.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to apply these insights to further develop the mountain biking scene in Nepal. By incorporating the community involvement and environmental stewardship I witnessed in Sri Lanka, I believe we can elevate the Yak Ru Enduro and Pokhara Enduro to new heights. As for Sri Lanka, the sight of those enthusiastic children on bikes tells me that the future of mountain biking in the country is bright. Events like Enduro Lanka are not just races; they’re catalysts for growing the sport across Asia. I left with not just memories, but a renewed passion for the role we as organisers play in nurturing this incredible sport and the communities it brings together.