Hercules and Himachal Adventure Sports and Tourism Promotion Association (HASTPA) launched the 4th edition of India's premier mountain biking race-- Hercules Mountain Biking Himachal 2008.

The race which will flag off on September 27 from Shimla and will cover a distance of 680 kms over nine eventful days.

The race will gain an elevation of over 14,000 metres as it passes through hilly course, straight and intricate sections, before finally finishing at Manali on 6th October 2008. 

Widely acclaimed as India's first and biggest mountain bike race, the Hercules Mountain Biking Himachal 2008 Championship will have over top 80 international and Indian riders taking centre stage.

Participants from across the globe-- South Africa [Images], Australia [Images], USA, UK, Germany [Images], Dubai, and Pakistan apart from Indian participants will compete in this year's event. The strong line up will battle it out this year for the total prize money of Rs 6 Lakhs.