Riding Towards a Greener Future: Jalandhar school hosts Cyclothon

Cycling, often hailed as the epitome of a holistic sport, transcends the boundaries of a mere physical activity. It stands as a testament to the harmonious synergy between mind, body, and environment. Embraced by enthusiasts of all ages, cycling is an endeavour that not only invigorates the body but also nurtures mental well-being. The rhythmic motion of pedaling, propelled by the gentle hum of wheels, weaves a narrative of endurance, balance, and sheer joy.

Beyond its cardiovascular benefits, cycling is an immersive experience, an exploration of scenic landscapes, and a communion with nature. It is a sport that beckons individuals to forge a profound connection with their surroundings while sculpting a healthier, more resilient version of themselves. In this pursuit of health and vitality, cycling emerges not just as a sport, but as a way of life.

In a remarkable tribute to the visionary Dr Stya Paul, the late Founder-Chairman of Apeejay Education, Apeejay School, Model Town in Jalandhar played host to a colossal Cyclothon in October, 2023. The event, organised under the theme of “Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam”, not only showcased the unity and determination of participants but also underscored a collective endeavour towards a sustainable lifestyle and a greener environment.

At Apeejay, the conviction in the boundless potential of humans was vividly demonstrated through this monumental event. It served as a powerful reminder that when combined, our efforts can indeed yield extraordinary results. The ethos of the Cyclothon was rooted in the belief that cycling, as a unifying activity, symbolises the journey towards a common goal – a fitter, more sustainable future.

The event was inaugurated with great fanfare, as the distinguished chief guest, Akashdeep Singh, a luminary in the realm of hockey and an Olympian, flagged off the event. The sight that followed was nothing short of awe-inspiring – cyclists of all ages, from sprightly two-year-olds to spirited octogenarians, came together in a shared commitment to pedal their way to fitness and well-being.

Cycling, beyond its physical benefits, embodies a wholesome way of life. It fosters a sense of balance, both mentally and physically, and is a powerful contributor to overall health and well-being. The event echoed the sentiment that commencing the day with a rejuvenating activity like cycling sets the tone for an energetic and productive day, invigorating blood circulation and uplifting spirits.

The event was made possible through the generous support of the community sponsors. Parindey dance group, led by the dynamic Mr Rajan Syal, kicked off the festivities with an invigorating warm-up session. Noteworthy contributions also came from Decathlon, Ashirwad Investments, and Alert Gym, whose support was invaluable in orchestrating this grand event.

Participating cycling groups, including the Hawk Riders, Sky Riders, Pedal and Pro Max, Adampur Cycling Group, Kapurthala Cycling Group, Hoshiarpur Cycling Group, Jalandhar Cantonment Board Cyclists, and AGI Infra Cycling Group, lent an air of camaraderie to the occasion, showcasing the diverse tapestry of the cycling community.

The day received an added touch of prestige with the presence of world-class cyclists. Nitush Chadha, a Paris Brest Paris Cyclothon finisher, and Balraj Singh Chauhan, a World Record holder with a staggering 1,40,723 km to his name, along with Baljeet Singh Mahajan, and cyclists from the Rotary Club Jalandhar, graced the occasion with their illustrious presence.

The safety and well-being of participants were assured by the dedicated team from Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), whose medical assistance was indispensable throughout the event. Additionally, the social media partner, Notice Board Jalandhar by Tinu Luthra, played a pivotal role in ensuring that the event reached a wider audience.

Sharing his experience from the day, a cyclist Jasmeh Chandan Singh said, “I had the pleasure of attending the Cyclothon. It was indeed a well-planned show. From refreshments, warm up, security, the school’s team went above and beyond to create a truly unforgettable day with their focus and professionalism. At the very moment I arrived, I was impressed with the level of detail that had gone into planning the rides. The itinerary was put in place already. What really stood out was also the enthusiasm of the people. The cycling team was incredibly kind, knowledgeable and helpful. They were always there to offer support and encouragement and went out of their way to make sure everyone had a great experience.”

In a testament to the event’s resounding success, over 400 participants congregated, each leaving with a medal and certificate of participation as a token of appreciation for their remarkable contribution. To top it off, refreshments were generously provided to all participants, ensuring that their energy levels remained high and spirits even higher.

According to Muskan Saini, mother of Apeejay, Model Town students, Aarish and Mishti, “One is never too young or old to cycle. This proved perfectly well through the success of the Cyclothon 2.0. The event witnessed active participation from all. On the big day, under the supervision of relevant authorities and school teachers, young riders got a wonderful opportunity to explore open roads. Notably, my daughter, Mishti, overcame road fear. Irrefutably, physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness and there is no denying that cycling is the best way to incorporate such a healthy lifestyle. My happiness knew no bounds as soon as my daughter was awarded a medal and certificate for her participation.”

The day was not just a celebration of Dr Stya Paul’s indomitable spirit but also as a reminder of the immense power that lies in collective endeavour. Not to miss, the event was enthusiastically coordinated by Ms Maninder Kaur, a Social Science Educator of the school.

Truly, such events reinforce the belief that cycling is not just a sport, but a way of life – a means to a healthier, more harmonious world. A Cyclothon like this is a beacon of hope and inspiration, urging us all to keep moving forward, for ourselves and for the environment we call home.