Breaking the cycle
After over a year of planning, we finally set off on 24 November on what promised to be a truly epic mountain biking adventure in Mustang, Nepal. Our team was an international mix: two riders from New Zealand (Damian and Simon), two from Australia (father-son duo of Tim and Cooper), two from Singapore (Stu and Walt), one from Abu Dhabi (the birthday boy and TNI founder, James), and four local Nepali riders (Samir from LHFN, Suman from TNI, and two of the incredible girls we sponsor, Sangita and Binita). We also had a UK rider (Jamie, a TNI trustee) who was recovering from an injury and joined us by trekking instead.
The biking itself was phenomenal. Steep, high altitude climbs tested our endurance, while thrilling downhill runs kept the adrenaline pumping. The scenery was breathtaking at every turn, and the local food provided much needed fuel for the journey. Beyond the adventure, the multi-national participants and the unbreakable team spirit made the trip truly unforgettable.
The real heroes
However, the true heroes of the trip were Sangita and Binita. Less than halfway through, we learned that Sangita’s 14-year-old brother had tragically passed away. Most would have understood if she had chosen to leave early, but Sangita made the brave decision to continue the ride. She channelled her grief into strength, facing each section of riding with courage and determination. Her resilience was inspiring to everyone around her.
By Sangita’s side was Binita, supporting her every step of the way, making her laugh, comforting her and giving her the love she so needed at such a challenging time.
Their friendship shone as a testament to loyalty, love and courage.
These two girls, born into the bottom rung of a traditional and often cruel caste system, showed us all the power of innate potential. There’s no caste on a bike. No barriers. Just the rider and the mountain, and the courage to keep moving forward. Sangita and Binita proved that, on and off the bike, they can face any challenge and make a difference in the world.
We now plan to get more of the children onto bikes and make this an annual event (albeit perhaps less extreme next time!). Hope to see some of you in the mountains in 2026!