Harshita Jakhar becomes the first Indian woman to participate in the Tour de France Femmes in Switzerland.
Young cyclist Harshita Jakhar made history by becoming the first Indian woman to feature in the Tour de France Femmes, held in Switzerland. At the age of 19, Jakhar led a pack of eight talented cyclists from Afghanistan, Algeria, Chile, Ethiopia with two riders each, Namibia and Uganda during the ceremonial start at Stage 2 of the grueling race on July 30. The event, part of the UCI Women’s World Tour calendar, started on August 1 in Lausanne and will conclude on August 9 in Nice.
The team was handpicked by UCI (Union Cycliste de Internationale). Along with some riders from the WCC Road Team, they cycled a neutralized section of the course, covering 4.5 kilometres. UCI President David Lappartient joined the riders on the start podium before the stage and expressed his delight at seeing an Indian in the mix.
Originating from Rajasthan, Jakhar has been making waves on the Indian cycling circuit. She has swept almost all the medals on offer in the junior category and won regularly in the seniors section as well. Her aim is to finish among the Top 10 at the 2026 Asian Games and win a medal in the 2030 Games.
Source:
Akashvani News
