A group of adventurous cyclists from Kerala is making waves as they complete an impressive 1,000 km journey to Goa. This expedition has captured the imaginations of cycling enthusiasts across the country, highlighting the growing trend of long-distance biking in India.
The 11-member team hails from Kochi and is a diverse mix of retirees and working professionals, ranging in age from 35 to 65. Among them are retired bankers, active financial professionals, and advocates, all united by a shared passion for cycling. The idea for this ambitious trip took shape seven months ago, as the group meticulously coordinated their schedules and made necessary arrangements, including train tickets from Margoa to Kochi.
On October 11, they kicked off their journey with a short ride around Kochi, but the real adventure began at 4 a.m. the following day. The cyclists tackled a grueling 200 km on their first day, arriving in Calicut late that evening. For Ajit Kamat, one of the riders, this journey was particularly meaningful. Despite being born in Kerala, his roots trace back to Goa, adding a personal touch to the adventure.
“We typically cycle around 100 km in a day, so this long trek wasn’t daunting,” he said, noting the impressive bike he rode, valued at nearly a lakh. The group featured a variety of bicycles, from high-end models to more standard ones, showcasing the diversity of their cycling community.
Jayprakash Shivdas, 65, one of the older cyclists, expressed excitement about their trip to Goa, strategically planned to coincide with the puja holidays in Kerala. The group aimed to cover around 150 km each day, starting their rides at 6 a.m. each morning.
However, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. On their first day, they faced a mechanical issue that set them back three hours. “On trips like this, someone usually encounters a small problem, like a flat tire,” Shivdas said. “We fix it and keep going. We cycle in pairs to ensure no one rides alone, which offers a safety net.”
Despite their ups and downs, the cyclists maintained a camaraderie that kept spirits high. Their only late arrival occurred when they reached Udupi at 8 p.m., an experience that only added to the journey’s narrative.
Now in Goa, the group is taking a well-deserved breather, cycling along the picturesque beaches and soaking in the local culture. They plan to load their bikes onto a train this Sunday for the journey back to Kerala, marking the end of an unforgettable experience.
The camaraderie, the breathtaking sights, and the shared challenges have created lasting memories for these cyclists. Exhausted yet exhilarated, they will carry the stories of their adventure long after their wheels stop turning.