Manali paragliding pre-World Cup postponed over Prez’s proposed visit

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Event now scheduled for Oct 9-12; 84 pilots, including six women, register so far

Manali, September 23

The Paragliding Accuracy Pre-World Cup in Manali has been rescheduled to October 9-12, with the change coming in view of President Droupadi Murmu’s proposed visit to the tourism town, organisers said on Tuesday.

The international-level competition was earlier scheduled to be held from October 5 to 8 at Solang Nala. Around 84 pilots, including six women, have registered for the event so far, with registrations open till September 25.

The competition will be held at the ski slopes of Solang Nala and is expected to draw paragliding pilots from across India and abroad. Pilots will take off from Fataru and land at Solang Nala, flying at an altitude of nearly 10,000 feet.

Preparations for the event were reviewed at a meeting between Manali MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur and representatives of the Paragliding Association of Manali.

Speaking to reporters, Gaur said government departments and tourism stakeholders would work together to ensure the smooth conduct of the competition.

“This international competition will provide a major boost to adventure tourism in Manali. All departments and tourism organisations are extending support to make the event successful,” he added.

Paragliding Association of Manali president Ved Ram Thakur said the competition would be held in three categories and an FAI licence would be mandatory for all participants. Judges for the event would be invited from other states and different locations, he added.

The organisers said registrations would remain open till September 25. The event is expected to bring together pilots from India and abroad and further highlight Manali as an adventure tourism destination.