Finding My Place in Yak Attack

**Finding My Place in Yak Attack**

Blaming others without realizing halfway through that I was also part of the core organizing team—that I had the space to speak up, to execute, to lead. That realization hit me hard.

I’ve always felt a deep urge to belong, yet often found myself questioning whether I truly did. Even as someone who loves cycling, who was once a coordinator for Cycle Connect GenZ, I sometimes struggle to find my place there. So imagine how I felt stepping into Yak Attack.

Let me take you back to how I stumbled into this incredible opportunity—to be part of the organizing team for one of Nepal’s most iconic mountain bike races, with no prior race experience.

It was a first for me, and a first experience with me for all.

I was entrusted with a responsibility I didn’t fully grasp at the time. I took things lightly—a habit that might one day be my downfall. Alas.

I’m the youngest participant of Nepal’s first-ever Mountain Bike Guide Training. I earned my MTB guide license, and I’m probably the youngest to hold it. During the training, I met some incredible mentors—Ajay dai, Tara sir, and Usha di.

Ajay Pandit Chhetri—how do I even introduce him? Every time I see him, I’m surprised by his spirit and his infectious laugh. It’s hard to believe this dai was once Nepal’s champion, representing our country on international platforms. He still does, but you know how Nepal treats its sports industry. I hope things change with the new government, so athletes like Ajay dai can confidently tell young people that pursuing a career in sports is secure and respected.

Usha di-a powerhouse born into a Brahmin family where teaching is the traditional path. Yet, she chose a different road, one filled with grit, adrenaline, and mountains. I often wonder what story lies behind her incredible performance and unwavering motivation to break limits. She’s not just representing Nepal—she’s representing Nepali women in the global cycling world. And while she’s gaining recognition abroad, I’m not sure Nepal is giving her the appreciation she truly deserves.

Tara sir – a curious character, carrying many responsibilities. I feel we have a few things in common, though others in Yak Attack might have different opinions. At one point, people were convinced we were buba-xori (father-daughter), but that’s a story for another day.

These three, along with Gyan dai, are pillars of the Cycle Culture community. This year, we—yes, including me—managed the race. It feels surreal how it all came together. Despite some complications, I think it ended beautifully.

I met Gyan dai later. At first glance, he seemed serious, someone who loves giving advice. But he knows how to read the room and make people feel comfortable. I think I connected with him first. And he is funny.

After the guide training, they asked me to stay involved in the Cycle Culture community. I was hesitant. I asked if I had what it takes. They said they believed in me—and have been giving me compliments that feel too generous ever since. I see their high hopes, and honestly, I don’t feel like I deserve them. But life is about making space for yourself, right?

So here we are—fast forward to Yak Attack 2025.

The epic journey of mine.

Distant call

**Day One: A Journey Beyond Travel**

I’m always excited about travel. But I knew this trip wouldn’t be like any other—it would be something much more. A journey of learning, growth, and preparation. I promised myself I’d equip my mind and body for both the best and the worst. And yet, there I was, facing all of me—my vulnerability, my homesickness, and the unexpected.

On the very first day, my period hit. You know how it is—traveling while menstruating is never easy. Thankfully, it wasn’t too painful this time, and thank goodness there were dustbins to dispose of pads through out the trip. I don’t know where those pads end up or how the hotel has been managing them, but at least there was a place to throw them unlike last time on the way of chitlang.

That moment sparked something in me—a renewed urge to explore eco-friendly menstrual products.

After hours of traffic, things got worse—our bus broke down and needed maintenance. You know how it is with machinery; it always finds the worst time to act up. This delay gave us a chance to explore Mugling Bazaar, which added a small, unexpected adventure to our day.

After a quick lunch break, we finally reached our first destination: **Lamjung Besisahar**. The town felt like any other bazaar, but the hotel was surprisingly fancy. It had a swimming pool, a garden, and a spacious hall.

That swimming pool called to me. I wanted nothing more than to dive in and let the water wash away the exhaustion. But alas, I was on my period. I’ve always been told not to swim during menstruation, so of course, I didn’t. Still, I appreciated that the hotel had dustbins to dispose of pads – something so basic, yet often missing in many places.

I had a few tasks to complete on day one, and the day ended beautifully with introductions. We met all the crew members and racers, and the energy was warm and welcoming. I slept peacefully in Lamjung, wondering what tomorrow’s sun would bring.