The nine-day Hercules Mountain biking championship concluded on Sunday with fanfare in Manali.

The mega event saw participants from across the globe competing with vigour. Ramesh Chand Joshi of Indian army bagged the first place and was awarded a cash prize of Rs 100,000. Joseph Cruz of the United States stood second and Naresh from Indian army third in the race. While Cruz was given cash prize of Rs 50,000, Naresh was given Rs 25,000.

An overwhelmed Joshi said: "The race was a good competition, in which we have to encounter many difficulties. On the second and the third day of the race there was tough competition from Joseph Cruz, but later on he got weaker and I slightly better," said Joshi.