Sahyadri Classic - Conquering the Western Ghats

Memories Of Sahyadri Classic ED - 5

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Results:

After a recent route recce and discussions within the team and we’ll wishers, we have made certain tweaks to the cut off times and the flag off times.
These are minor tweaks with an idea to make the entire race experience smoother , safer and happier for participants as well as organisers!!!
Earlier , we had mentioned certain cut off times on our website and had offered a grace period of half an hour to the recreational cyclists . Now we have added that half an hour to the cut-off times to all categories and offer additional 15min grace to the recreational category cyclists. The idea is to encourage the downhill descents in safest possible speeds.
We also have to keep in mind not only the start time of the event but also the finish time of the entire event. Hence we have tweaked these times.
We encourage a safe and a easy descent and hope that you all will give your best shot on the climbs!!!
Team sahyadriclassics edition 5, wishes all the very best to each participant!!!!
Ride safe and finish strong!!!

The Prizes!!!Podium finish alert!!!
As mentioned on our website, the minimum number of registrations received for particular categories qualified for prize money!!
Most of the categories have received a good number of registrations and we are extremely thankful and happy for the same!!! Hence most of the categories will have the prize money for podium finishers,as declared previously.
We tried our best to get as many women participants as men for a good tough competition, but not all categories have fulfilled the basic number of registrations received.
Hence some of the categories will not be eligible for prize money. However, we will have some surprise gift hampers as encouragement for participation and we sincerely hope that future editions have stronger and more women participation!!!

*important update*
All those participating in the 4 ghat challenge, here is an important update.
After our recent recce on the route, The road conditions at tapola are the worst in the entire route for most of the ghat section. As a result we have decided to cancel the tapola section from the 4 ghat challenge. Instead, Medha(Kelghar ghat) climb will be done twice to complete the 4 ghat challenge.

  • Ghat 01: pasarni(common for all categories)
  • Ghat 02: Ambenali(common for 2 ghat and 4 ghat categories)
  • Ghat 03 and Ghat 04: Medha (Kelghar) ghat x 2.

 

Participants after climbing Medha (Kelghar) will take a u turn from the top, descend again and climb back the same route second time to tick off the 4ghat challenge.

A detailed mail of rules and regulations explaining the route will be sent to individual participants in the next couple of days as well.
Participants can pace the climb repeats for Medha as per their strategy, however the final cut off time for the 4 ghat and 2 ghat challenge stays the same as previously mentioned on the website

There is no change in the route or the cutoff times for 1 ghat and 2 ghat categories.

(*AMBENALI section from mahableshwar to Pratapgarh is also not in great condition. however that section has been retained as is for the event)

Welcome to the thrilling world of the Sahyadri Classic! Brace yourself for an exhilarating cycling adventure that will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Mahabaleshwar in Western Ghats. This challenging race will test the endurance, skill, and determination of every cyclist who dares to participate. For elite and competitive cyclists prize money awaits at the podium for racing category. For the non-competitive cyclists, you can choose the recreational category and enjoy the experience while you earn some well-deserved bragging rights. You can do it solo or you could even team up with your friend or your spouse!

Event Overview:

The Sahyadri Classic is an annual cycling event held in the picturesque region of the hill station of Mahabaleshwar, nestled amidst the Sahyadri Mountain Range in Maharashtra, India. Known for its stunning vistas, dense forests, and magnificent hill passes, the Western Ghats provide the perfect backdrop for this grueling yet awe-inspiring race.

Route:

The race commences at the base of Mahabaleshwar on Wai side, with cyclists lining up at the starting point, eager to take on the challenge ahead. The route encompasses a series of challenging mountain passes and picturesque valleys.

Key Passes:

  1. Pasarani : The initial leg takes riders through the simplest of all the passes, They finish the climb, to be greeted by a magnificent sunrise over valleys of Mahabaleshwar! Your timing will be marked at the start and at the end of the Pass. Still several kilometers to ride in neutral zone till ‘THE HUB’.
  2. Ambenali: After Pasarani, everyone must reach THE HUB , Some light breakfast awaits the riders. One ghat riders can pick up their breakfast and medal, stay back to cheers up the other riders! For two and four ghat riders, they can descend Ambenali (descend is completely neutral zone, no racing here) and choose the time (within given time frame) to start ascent of Ambenali. This is one intense series of Switchbacks! Your timing will be calculated at the start and at the end of Ambenali pass. Report again at THE HUB
  3. Tapola: As the race progresses, four ghat riders will descend the Tapola pass in neutral zone, this is non racing part. Start one more formidable ascent, start in the given time frame. The route is characterized by winding roads and lush greenery, providing both a physical and visual treat to the cyclists. The riders will pass through beautiful valley, some call it mini Kashmir. Enjoy the climb!
  4. Medha : As the race reach its last climb, the riders face another formidable ascent – the climb to Medha. plan your nutrition, hydration well, you are riding in a sunshine. You are giving all you have got!

Race Experience:

As the riders tackle each pass, they experience a rollercoaster of emotions – from the exhaustion and burning muscles during the climbs to the exhilaration and adrenaline rush during the descents. The race not only demands physical strength but also mental fortitude as the participants push their limits to overcome the challenging terrain.

For the Elite and professional racers, a Podium finish ensures a prize money cheque. This holds true for all categories of the race.

For recreational riders, you will conquer your fears, tick mark your bucket list, do better than yesterday and Just enjoy.

The HUB in Mahabaleshwar transforms itself into a mélange of Excitement, Enthusiasm and positive vibes where cyclists of all ages and categories from all over merge into a single large community.

Facilities like breakfast, lunch, mechanical aid station, a physio booth are available at the HUB. Hydration stations are spread out all along the route with ample Volunteer support. Our team of photographers are constantly on the lookout for some amazing shots of the participants. Medical facilities like a medical response team, ambulances are at our service

Spectacular Scenery:

Throughout the race, cyclists are treated to breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush forests, and the serene Venna Lake. The serene beauty of Mahabaleshwar contrasts with the intense physical effort, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for every cyclist. December offers one of the best weather conditions in the Sahyadri ranges to cycles. The fresh air enables one to stay focused better on the race day.

Conclusion

The Sahyadri Classic is an extraordinary test of endurance, showcasing the beauty of the Western Ghats while challenging cyclists to reach new heights – both literally and metaphorically. It’s an event that fosters camaraderie, determination, and a deep appreciation for nature’s wonders, leaving participants with memories that will last a lifetime. So, gear up your bicycles and get ready for the ultimate adventure in the heart of the Western Ghats!

F.A.Qs

Frequently asked questions

A cycling event hosted in and around Mahabaleshwar which includes recreational and competitive categories for participants.

A hill station located at an altitude of 4400 feet (1353 meters) at a distance of 230 km (140 miles) from Mumbai. The City of Pune is the nearest large metro around 85 km (50 miles) from the starting point of the race at Wai. Participants can find adequate hotels in Mahabaleshwar or Panchgani.

Majorly focused on tackling climbs of various mountain passes or ghats (in local language) Only climbing elevation is considered for the event. Rest of the route is categorised as a “Neutral Zone” and timings will not be counted

Divided into 3 main categories:

  • 1 Ghat Challenge
  • 2 Ghat Challenge
  • 4 Ghat Challenge.

These are further sub divided into Competitive (prize money for Podium finishers) and Recreational (No prize money for podium finishers)

Men solo/ Women Solo/ Men Team/ Women Team/ Mixed team can participate in the above-mentioned categories based on their preference. 1 ghat challenge is obviously for individuals only.

The elevation for different ghats varies. To give a general idea, one should expect a 4-6% gradient with different distances. Some sections are very steep and can go up to 12%.

The route is as follows:

 

Pasarni Ghat(to mahablaeshwar)

Ambenali Ghat

Medha Ghat

Tapola Ghat

Total

 

Length KM

Elevation gain mt

Length KM

Elevation gain mt

Length KM

Elevation gain mt

Length KM

Elevation gain mt

Length KM

Elevation gain mt

1 ghat challenge

29

750

N.A

N.A

N.A

N.A

N.A

N.A

29

750

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 ghat challenge

29

750

32

1266

N.A

N.A

N.A

N.A

61

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 ghat challenge

29

750

32

1266

18

650

27

750

106

3416

 

The race begins at the base of each ghat and ends at the finish line at the top of the ghat, the neutral zone commences immediately and continues upto the hub at Mahabaleshwar. The ride from the hub till the base of the next ghat is also a neutral zone and no timings will be maintained. All participants are obliged to report at the hub after each stage.

*The above table mentions only the competitive / race zone distances and elevations. Neutral zone distances and elevations are additional.*

As the name suggests, this is a climbing challenge. Thus, the terrain will go to ghat sections / mountain passes of beautiful Sahyadri around Mahabaleshwar. Generally, the roads are tar or concrete surface but since the route falls in a heavy monsoon region, one might encounter few patches of bad roads / road repairs on the way. In case the route is unfit for a cycling event, the organisers have the right to modify the event route / event format keeping in mind the safety of riders and overall logistics.

This race will probably be one of your lifetime achievements – both physically and mentally. Regular riders can attempt the 2 ghat challenge or the 4 ghat challenge. Beginners/ amateurs can surely target the 1 ghat challenge.

The success rate is very high. Though it is an ultra-climbing race, very few racers do not make cut-off times except for mechanical failures or medical issues. These statistics are based on previous editions where DNF category is very rare.

There are categories targeted specifically at recreational riders.

The event is flagged off after 0430 am (based on category) and it ends at 0630 pm in the evening, thus making it a total time of 14 hours. No participant is allowed to ride after 0630 pm (after sunset) The sweeping vehicle shall pick up the rider wherever he or she is found riding at the mentioned time.

Cut off times (start and end time) of each ghat is mentioned in the details at time of registrations. However, the cut off times are comfortable taking into consideration the estimated average time of various categories of riders.

No, participants cannot stage personal items anywhere on the course. You will have to carry everything that you need for the day. The Aid Stations will have various food, snacks, water and hydration products available.

participants with allergies should arrange for personal food as we cannot accommodate all at the Aid Station(s) or Finish Line. Any medical allergies shall be disclosed by the participant at the time of registration.

Yes, the minimum age requirement to enter the event is 18 years. However, if you are below 18, then consent from guardians is mandatory. The event organisers have the right of accommodating any special case under 18 in case the participant is a national level or state level competitor.

There is no specific requirement on the cycle type/ make. Any bicycle which you are comfortable riding is fine. Cycling clothing with helmets and adequate front and rear lights are mandatory. Any rider participating without these will be disqualified.

Beautiful cold weather prevails in the hill station of Maharashtra. The noon of December is mildly hot; however, the shade of the ghats makes it perfect for riding/climbing.

Minimum 2 ambulances will be present for the entire route. There will be a medical team / doctor on call in case of any emergency. However, since the route is spread over a distance and participants will be spread over the entire route travel time needs to be considered for medical facility / help to arrive if needed. At the registration hub on the event day, medical aid centre shall be set up for basic physio attention.

The organisers will release details of certain accommodation options at the time of registrations which will be at additional cost. If it is available, the participant may choose to opt for the same by paying the needful.

The organisers are currently in talks with certain vendors to provide this facility. Once the details are finalised, the relevant information will be updated. 

The HUB is a central place in Mahabaleshwar which shall be mentioned in the route details. All participants have to report at the hub after each ghat section. Also, breakfast and lunch facility will be provided at the Hub. The event shall end at the Hub as per the category. 

There will be a dedicated parking facility for around 15/20 cars. However, the surrounding areas will have some parking facility. Participants are encouraged to carpool and ensure that nuisance in any form to the local should be avoided. 

Yes, once the event ends, participants can avail transport facility in the back up tempo from the finish location in Mahabaleshwar to the start point in Wai. This facility will be additional cost which will be conveyed later. However, this will not be for individual cycles for obvious logistical reasons. Once the count is around 10 to 15 cycles, the drop will be facilitated.  

Yes and No!! Taking handouts, mechanical assists, drafting by a support vehicle is not allowed and it will subject to disqualification. However, families and friends coming in personal cars for cheering can be allowed. The cars can be stationed somewhere near the above-mentioned HUB. 

A dedicated mechanic team will be available on the prior evening at the venue to check individual cycles and do tuning adjustments, if needed. Punctures en route have to be managed by the participants on their own.  Mechanical assistance on the event day will not be provided on the route. The mechanic booth will be available at the HUB.  

Yes. Breakfast and a light Lunch shall be included in the registration. These arrangements will be at the HUB. In addition to this start stations of all ghats will have basic hydration facilities. 

Once the participant decides their preferred category to participate, the relevant registration fee includes: 

  1. Ticket price of the event 
  2. Finishers souvenir 
  3. Timing chip facility 
  4. Breakfast, lunch and hydration support 
  5. Event jersey powered by Apace 
  6. Volunteer support 
  7. Medical support/ assistance 
  8. Mechanical assistance at the HUB 
  9. Bragging rights after completing the event 
  10. Access to all event Photos and videos post-race completion  

Yes. A bulk registration discount is applicable to more than 20 tickets from the same source. These tickets can be of different categories but have to be booked in bulk. 

Insurance to be done at individual level. This is a competitive event that each member will be participating on their own free will. The organisers will take all precautions to minimise accidents and maximise safety. However, individuals have to be responsible for their own safety. Signing Waiver forms/ Indemnity forms during registration is mandatory. 

Sahyadri Classic Edition 05 Ticket Cost

One Ghat Challenge

Name of Challenge

1 Ghats Challenge

Price

₹ 2,500 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Solo Men/Women Open Recreational

Two Ghat Challenge

Name of Challenge

2 Ghats Challenge

Price

₹ 4,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Solo Men/Women Open Recreational

Name of Challenge

2 Ghats Challenge

Price

₹ 4,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Solo Men/ Women Open Competitive

Name of Challenge

2 Ghats Team of Two

Price

₹ 5,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Men/Women/Mixed Recreational

Name of Challenge

2 Ghats 50+

Price

₹ 4,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Solo Men/ Women Competitive

Four Ghat Challenge

Name of Challenge

4 Ghats Challenge

Price

₹ 5,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Solo Men/Women Open Recreational

Name of Challenge

4 Ghats Challenge

Price

₹ 5,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Solo Men/Women Masters Competitive (40+)

Name of Challenge

4 Ghats Challenge

Price

₹ 5,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Solo Men/ Women Elite Competitive

Name of Challenge

4 Ghats Team of Two

Price

₹ 6,000 + 18% GST

Challenge Type

Men, Women, Mixed

Have a Group Don't Worry Click on Below Button

DISCOUNT ON GROUP BOOKINGS:

Discounts on bulk/ group bookings shall be available. For further details get in touch with SC organizing team at +91 98200 83142 (Mr. Manoj Joglekar)

INCLUSIONS IN TICKET PRICES:

  1. Ticket price of the event
  2. Cash prizes for winners in Competitive categories for two ghats and four ghats event.
  3. 1 no. Cycling Jersey, powered by Apace. 
  4. Hydration and Nutrition support. 
  5. Medical aid station at the Hub in Mahabaleshwar and medical support teams enroute. 
  6. Breakfast and Lunch at the Hub in Mahabaleshwar. 
  7. Finisher’s medal and Timing Certificate (digital form). 
  8. Volunteer Support all along the event route. 
  9. Event photo links. 
  10. Bib numbers for all participants  
  11. Bragging rights!! 

CRITERIA FOR CASH PRIZES FOR COMPETETIVE CATEGORIES:

  1. Prizes in all categories will be subject to the following:
    1. 1st prize: minimum of 15 participants in that particular category.
    2. 2nd prize: minimum of 16 to 20 participants in that particular category
    3. 3rd prize: minimum of 21 participants in that particular category.
  2. Minimum participation of 15 participants shall ensure any category.
  3. Lesser registrations in a particular category as mentioned above shall be merged with other similar ghat category.
    For example, if 5 registrations are received till
    end registration date for Women’s solo_ 4 ghat challenge, they may be merged with Men’s Masters 40+ _4 ghat challenge.
     
  4. Cut off timing for two Ghat challenge for prize eligibility is 3 hours. (only climbing time)
  5. Cut off timing for Four Ghat challenge for prize eligibility is 5 hours. (only climbing time)

CATEGORY 

ELITE 

 

 

MASTERS 

 

50+  

 

4 GHAT 

MEN 

1ST PRIZE 

1,00,000/- 

1ST PRIZE 

75,000/- 

N.A 

 

 

 

2ND PRIZE 

50,000 /- 

2ND PRIZE 

40,000/- 

N.A 

 

 

 

3RD PRIZE 

25,000/- 

3RD PRIZE 

20,000/- 

N.A 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 GHAT 

WOMEN 

1ST PRIZE 

75,000/- 

N.A 

 

N.A 

 

 

 

2ND PRIZE 

40,000/- 

N.A 

 

N.A 

 

 

 

3RD PRIZE 

20,000/- 

N.A 

 

N.A 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 GHAT 

MEN 

1ST PRIZE 

50,000/- 

N.A 

 

1ST PRIZE 

40,000/- 

 

 

2ND PRIZE 

25,000 /- 

N.A 

 

2ND PRIZE 

20,000/- 

 

 

3RD PRIZE 

12,500/- 

N.A 

 

3RD PRIZE 

10,000/- 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 GHAT 

WOMEN 

1ST PRIZE 

40,000/- 

N.A 

 

N.A 

 

 

 

2ND PRIZE 

20,000/- 

N.A 

 

N.A 

 

 

 

3RD PRIZE 

10,000/- 

N.A 

 

N.A 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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