Mysuru Celebrates Cyclists' Epic Cross-India Journey
Mysuru hosted a special graduation ceremony on Saturday. The event honored a group of determined cyclists. These individuals achieved an extraordinary feat. They pedaled across the entire length of India, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.
A Test of Stamina and Spirit
The monumental journey lasted for 22 grueling days. It covered a staggering distance of nearly 3,700 kilometers. This incredible ride showcased remarkable physical stamina. It also demonstrated immense mental resilience from every participant.
The expedition team consisted of 11 dedicated cyclists. A support crew of seven members played a crucial role. Their assistance was key to the successful completion of the ride. Notably, five women were part of the cycling team. The average age of all participants was an inspiring 50 years.
The Team Behind the Triumph
The Royal Ryders Mysuru team led this ambitious expedition. Vinay Singh served as the leader. The team included Harish Raman, Veena Ashok, and Dr. Brinda. Other members were Suhas Godhi, Pooja Harish, and Anita Bargi. Completing the roster were Sandeep Sagar, Chandana Jithendra, Jithendra Kumar, and Dr. Suman Byregowda.
Voices from the Journey
Madhu Mandanna shared his insights at the ceremony. He has undertaken several long-distance cycling expeditions across the country. Mandanna spoke about the transformative power of endurance sports.
"Endurance sports are not just about finishing an event," he stated. "They change your entire lifestyle. They instill discipline and consistency. They can even improve your focus at work."
He encouraged everyone to take up activities like cycling, running, or swimming. "The more you pursue it, the more you enjoy it," he added. "You also become part of a large, supportive community."
Veena Ashok, a farmer and homemaker, shared details of their rigorous preparation. She recently celebrated her 50th birthday. "Every day, we cycled for 8 to 9 hours," she explained. "We covered nearly 180 to 200 kilometers. We woke up at 3 a.m., had breakfast by 4 a.m., and began cycling by 4:30 a.m."
During the journey, the team traveled through 11 different states. They experienced diverse languages and rich cultures. "People from various communities came forward to help us," Ashok recalled. "It truly reflected India's beautiful unity in diversity."
Other team members also shared their experiences. Harish Raman, Vinay Singh, and Dr. Brinda spoke about the challenges they faced during the expedition.
Official Felicitation and Future Plans
Former minister and BJP MLA S. Suresh Kumar attended the occasion. He is a known cycle enthusiast. Kumar felicitated all the cyclists who took part in this historic ride. He lauded their incredible spirit and dedication.
He encouraged more citizens to embrace fitness and endurance sports. Kumar shared his own personal experiences. He recounted a memorable interaction where Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally called him to discuss his journey.
In an exciting announcement, Kumar revealed his future plans. He intends to undertake another Kashmir to Kanyakumari cycling expedition in the coming days. This news added to the inspirational atmosphere of the ceremony.
The event in Mysuru was more than just a celebration. It was a powerful testament to human endurance, teamwork, and the unifying spirit of adventure across India.
