Chennai, 15thAugust 2023:On the occasion of Independence Day, HCL organisedan exclusive Pedal-Up cycling ride for women in Chennai.This unique initiative was executed to engage and inspire more the more female cyclists to start living an active and healthy lifestyle and encourage women’s participation in the upcoming HCL Cyclothon- It is acycling race scheduled on October 15, 2023 in Chennai where cyclists with categories ranging from professionals to amateurs will participate.
On 15th August morning, in the Pedal-Up ride, around 100 women – cancer survivors, social media influencers, mothers, homemakers, professional cyclists and working professionals, enthusiastically participated. Spanning a distance of 15 kilometres, the route led them fromCiclo Cafe, Kotturpuram, through captivating landmarks such as Theosophical Society and Besant Nagar beach, culminating back at the Café.Various women cycling groups in Chennai came together for this ride including Babes on Bike (BOB), Women’s Cycling Club of Chennai and The Female Triathletes of Chennai.
“Cycling revitalizes and rejuvenates every facet of my being. Through my resolute commitment to a healthy lifestyle, I have triumphed over not just cancer, but life’s challenges as well. I wholeheartedly advocate cycling as a pathway to a prolonged and joyful existence,” shared Neerja Malik, a participant in the ride. Neerja stands as a triumphant conqueror of cancer, a celebrated inspirational speaker, and a passionate cyclist who is gearing up for the Pedal-Up ride.A mother of two, AbiramiManohar who has is Bronze medallist ITT at National Cycling Championship 2021 and won the Tamil Nadu State Championship 5 times, andis a participant in the ride, said, “Cycling is an extremely enjoyable sport. It has not only helped me to stay focused but also helped me gain more confidence. Cycling connected me to a lot of friends who were like minded. That helped me stay motivated. I became a stronger and better person.” Abirami started cycling in 2014 with 80% of indoor training and gradually moved to cycle-racing in 2016.
Mr. Rajat Chandolia, AVP and Head of Brand HCL said,“Our intention is to foster an elevated understanding of cycling, both as a thrilling sport and a leisurely pursuit. We aim to portray it as a healthful, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly choice that people of all generations and backgrounds can relish.Through this Pedal Up ride, our aim is to create an inclusive space that not only celebrates the joy of cycling but also encourages women towards a healthier and more active lifestyle”.”
Earlier this year, HCL organized its first HCL Cyclothon in Noida which witnessed participation from over 1000 participants. The next edition is scheduled in Chennai on 15th October and the last date to register for the same is September 20, 2023. More details are available at www.hclcyclothon.com. Through this initiative, HCL aims to motivate everyone to embrace a health-conscious lifestyle.
