Mangalore Cycle Club observes Independence Day in a Unique Way
Mangaluru: On the occasion of 72nd Independence day of our Nation, Mangalore bicycle Club planned the celebration in a unique way where 72 cyclists from Mangalore to ride for 72 minutes and pay our tribute to the nation. Although all the planning were in full swing, till August 14th weather conditions were not in favor. All the enthusiastic participants woke up to a pleasant morning and assembled at Mangaluru City Corporation Lalbagh at 6 am on August 15, 2018. We also had a few participants from BNI group (Business Network International) along with its Regional Director Mr. Ganesha Sharma joining the ride. Senior cyclist Ashokvardhana also participated in the ride.
We set our pedals in action after being energized by inspiring and proud stories of Indian Army shared by our own cycling enthusiast Captain Rajaneesh Linekaje, who is currently posted in Kashmir. He made himself available to share this occasion with our cyclists despite short notice. His father Mr. Ramakrishna Linekaje was also present. Captain Rajaneesh is a native of Madikeri and a passionate cyclist with several cycling expeditions to his credit. A few of it includes his solo pedalling in Spiti Valley covering over high passes like Kunzum pass (15000 ft) and Rohtang Pass (13500 ft) covering a distance of 510 kms in 6 days without any backup. He also led an Army team in Bundel khand for a cycle safari of 7 days. He has also covered many territories of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, UP, MP and Himachal Pradesh on his pedals. He has plans to explore North East regions in the near future.
We started off from Mangalore city corporation and covering a distance of about 20 kms in 72 minutes. Route followed- Urwa store -ladyhill- mannagudda- ballalbagh- pvs- jyoti circle- balmatta- kankanady- mangaladevi- forum mall- hampankatta- navbharath circle- and back to MCC lalbagh.
Youngest rider in our troop was 6 years old and the oldest being 75 years. All the riders were proudly displaying our National Flag on their Bicycles and coming together in such a big gathering to commemorate the event which happened 72 years ago was a big boost to the rest of the day and will be remembered for ever. Mangalore Bicycle Club pays our tribute to all our Nation builders and national heroes who helped us secure our independence in 1947 and to all the heroes of our Indian Armed Forces who protects us sacrificing their lives. Jai Hind!