Kolkata: On the dawn of Independence Day, Kolkata witnessed a remarkable celebration of freedom, health, and sustainability through the Freedom of Ride Kolkata City Cycle Race. This unique event, organized by Cyclology, Run n Fun, Dquests Adventure in collaboration with Decathlon and Clean Air Network, brought together cycling enthusiasts from across the city for a ride that was both symbolically significant and environmentally impactful.
The event kicked off early in the morning as over 200 participants and 50 volunteers gathered at the starting points. Mr. Subir Ghosh, MD, Unirox Bikes flagged off the event from Newtown; Mr. Malay Mukherjee, an Everester flagged off from Howrah Dumurjola Stadium, Mr. Samrat Moulik, a River Cyclist and Ms. Lipika Biswas, an Everester flagged off from Garia.
The race covered an extensive 90 km route, weaving through some of Kolkata's most iconic locations, including Millennium Park, Dumurjola Stadium, and Dankuni Turning. This challenging course was designed not only to test the endurance of the cyclists but also to offer a journey through the city's rich heritage, with the route tracing the historic heart of Kolkata, a city with over 300 years of history.
Mr. Arnab Patra ,President of Cyclology Trust said, “Freedom of ride aims to contribute to the spirit of Independence Day with the promotion of fitness and environmental consciousness. By participating, Cyclists not only enjoyed a challenging and scenic route but also contributed to a larger cause of promoting a healthy lifestyle."
A distinctive feature of this race was its innovative format, which allowed participants to exercise their independence by choosing their own paths between multiple mandatory checkpoints. This approach symbolized the essence of freedom, a core value celebrated on Independence Day, while also stressing the importance of safety and adherence to traffic regulations.
The Freedom of Ride Kolkata City Cycle Race was more than just a sporting event; it was a powerful platform for promoting sustainable mobility and environmental consciousness. As participants cycled through the streets of Kolkata, they carried a vital message—the urgent need to transition towards eco-friendly modes of transportation to reduce air pollution and create a cleaner, healthier urban environment. The event showcased the role of cycling as a sustainable alternative to motorized transport, offering a solution that aligns with both public health and environmental goals.
Representative from Decathlon said, "Bringing people together for a 90 km journey through Kolkata's historic routes on Independence Day was more than just a race—it was a celebration of freedom, health, and sustainability."
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