Itanagar, May 18:
In a landmark achievement for sports in Arunachal Pradesh, cyclist and coach Rubi Lombo from Anini in Dibang Valley district has created history by becoming the first Mountain Bike (MTB) coach from the state and the only female coach from Arunachal Pradesh to be selected by the Sports Authority of India for Team India at the upcoming Asian Mountain Bike Championships 2026 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Her selection marks a proud moment not only for Arunachal Pradesh but also for the entire Northeast region, highlighting the growing presence of women and athletes from the frontier states in international cycling and sports coaching.
Congratulating Rubi Lombo on her historic achievement, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu extended his best wishes to her and Team India for the prestigious continental championship.
The Chief Minister stated that her accomplishment reflects dedication, perseverance, and the rising sporting talent emerging from Arunachal Pradesh. He expressed confidence that Rubi Lombo would continue to bring laurels to the nation while inspiring a new generation of cyclists and young sportspersons from the Northeast and beyond.
The Asian MTB Championships is one of Asia’s premier cycling events, bringing together elite mountain biking athletes and coaches from across the continent.
Rubi Lombo’s inclusion in the Indian contingent is being seen as a significant milestone for women’s participation and representation in professional cycling from the region.
Her journey from the remote district of Dibang Valley to the international sporting stage is expected to motivate aspiring athletes, especially young women, to pursue competitive sports and coaching at national and international levels.
