Some of the world's top paragliding pilots will be taking part in the maiden Paragliding World Cup at Bir-Billing in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh from October 23-31.
The competition will see three of the four World's top-ranked pilots in a total of 130 pilots from over 35 countries, Himachal Pradesh's Urban development minister and President of the Billing Paragliding Association, Sudhir Sharma said here.
The venue Bir-Billing often referred to as a "Paradise for Paragliders" is considered one of best launch sites for the sport in the world and is located 40 km from Kangra town.
He said a strong French contingent with as many as 13 pilots, including the top stars of the sport, many of whom have been winners of World Cups will figure in their contingent.
He said among the top-ranking pilots who have confirmed their participation in the event are Julien Wirtz of France, Jurij Vidic of Slovenia and Torsten Siegel of Germany.
Andreas Malecki of Germany and Maxine Pinot of France, are among the top participants, he further said.
Eight pilots from India include two of country's best -- Ajay Kumar and Gurpreet Dhindsa.
The team also includes 12 women, including former World No. 1 Klaudia Bulgakow of Poland.
Among other nations, sending in sizeable contingents, there will be nine from United Kingdom, seven from Russia, five from South Korea, four each from Germany, Japan and Norway.
A total of 35 countries will be represented in the competition, which is being held for the first time in India, Sharma told reporters.
Sharma said Bir-Billing in the picturesque Kangra Valley is the second best flying site in the world after Lake Como in Italy.
While the Himachal government and the Association would jointly organise the mega event, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) would be the title sponsors.
