KUCHING: The Siol International Mountain Bike Challenge (SIMBC) 2025 made history after being awarded Class 1 (C1) status by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), placing it on par with premier championships in New Zealand, Switzerland, Spain, and Austria.
Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak (MYSED), Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the UCI recognition would elevate SIMBC to a bigger scale in the coming years, attracting even more international competitors.
“That is the highest recognition in UCI mountain biking competitions, and upgrades will certainly be carried out to make the track more challenging while also ensuring greater safety to minimise serious injuries.
“I know this area has many sharp rocks, so some corners may be redesigned to challenge riders further. Personally, I like the track for its demanding terrain, which has made it the venue of choice for the past 10 years and earned the ‘Siol International Mountain Bike’ brand international recognition among MTB riders.
“Hence, as custodian of this venue, I trust Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) will manage it well so that it not only serves as a top tournament site but also enhances the recreational park,” he said when met by reporters during the event at the Siol MTB Track yesterday (Aug 24).
Meanwhile, DBKU mayor Datuk Hilmy Othman said Bukit Siol’s natural terrain made it highly suitable for hosting international championships.
“This terrain truly tests the endurance of competitors and reflects the international standards we want to achieve.
“So, Alhamdulillah, with the support of the ministry and DBKU, we will work towards improving the infrastructure and all the necessary requirements to make this event even more successful.
“Since it has already been recognised as UCI Class 1, we will try our best to maintain that status,” he said.
Marking its 10th edition this year, the event attracted 162 riders from seven countries (Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Chinese Taipei, and Malaysia), including SEA Games gold medallists and Olympic riders from Japan.
Highlights included the Cross Country Olympic (XCO) Men’s Elite and the Cross Country Relay (XCR) Team Relay, with prize presentation ceremony officiated by Abdul Karim.
Other contested categories were the Downhill Individual (DHI), Cross Country Short Course (XCC), Cross Country Eliminator (XCE), and the XCR Mayor’s Challenge Trophy, all of which showcased the endurance and skill of riders as they conquered the rugged Bukit Siol track.
