‘Cycling builds stamina, helps reduce stress’

There is more to Republic Day than just flag hoisting, these spirited bicyclists from across sections of society seemed to prove.

Bureaucrats, industry leaders, students and commoners enthusiastically participated in ‘The Republic Ride-2015’, which was held at the Gachibowli stadium on Monday. The event was organised by The Atlanta Foundation and supported by industry bodies like NASSCOM, HYSEA and TiE, with an aim to creating awareness on cycling, and also to generate funds for the education of under-privileged students.

“Cycling builds stamina, improves cardio-vascular fitness improves health and reduces stress. Cycling can be integrated into any fitness programme. We urge people in city to get into active cycling – ‘Cycle to Work’,” said The Atlanta Foundation’s founder and CEO Deenanath Harapanahalli.

The event was flagged off by Telangana IT Secretary Harpreet Singh, who provided updates on the initiatives of the State government. On the sidelines of the event, Mr. Singh said discussions with IT industry experts were underway and that an IT policy will be out soon. He also said that the proposed T-Hub, touted to be one of the largest incubator centres in the country, will come up in six months at IIIT, Hyderabad.

The event turned out to be a big draw as more than 1,400 cyclists from about 100 MNCs took part.

The 100-km ride began at the Gachibowli stadium, covering a scenic route of 100 km that included the Cycle-2-Work path at Hitec City, Taramati Baradari, Gandipet and Himayatsagar lakes before finally ending at the stadium. All riders who finished within the cut-off time received a medal and an e-certificate for timing.

Bureaucrats, industry leaders and commoners took part in The Republic Ride-2015, to create awareness on the benefits of cycling and raised funds for under-privileged children