Amongst the lethargy of Covid lockdown , the necessity to pull up my fitness levels for my annual high-altitude trek was building on me. Inspired by Bicycle Adda the first Bicycle ride of 22kms in 1.05 mins., soared my confidence levels from the unfathomed depths of the ocean to the towering Himalayas.
Amongst the lethargy of Covid lockdown , the necessity to pull up my fitness levels for my annual high-altitude trek was building on me. Inspired by Bicycle Adda the first Bicycle ride of 22kms in 1.05 mins., soared my confidence levels from the unfathomed depths of the ocean to the towering Himalayas.
In the chilly wee hours of February 28, 2021, the group took off from Vatika with full enthusiasm and by the time we strained through the incline at Dronacharya metro station, many wanted a pit stop to water themselves.
After a brief halt at Qutab for selfies ,headed down the increasing traffic road towards India gate, before we turned off to the quieter Lutyens green New Delhi, wrapping like a pasture on our eyes, the light wind of destiny at our back surging our spirits and speeds, with dancing leaves above and deep breathing below at every pedal, reached India Gate by 6 am.
The spirits were soaring high with each picture shot with India gate at the backdrop and photo bombing crowds around it. Then headed to Mysore Café set up exclusively for morning cyclists.
After a sumptuous filling of South Indian palette from the Mysore restaurant (not realizing we still had about 55kms to go).
fatigue from dehydration increased, leading to change of routes to reach home, with Strava (cycling App) constantly reminding the drudgery ahead to achieve the 100kms mark. By 11am, the home run highlighted through the signboards showing arrows towards Vatika city, glittered our eyes through the droplets of salt falling from our fore heads, until it turned into scream of joy, laughter, thumbs up with photo and stretching sessions in the forbidden green patches of our condominium.
Will power is a strong word, but the true strength of its meaning starts from within when one has to face a challenge. I must admit, this came through shining in each one of us, on that given day, when we did it – with one heart, two feet at work and a mighty will in our heads to do it. So 100kms – done and dusted!!!!
Anil SV Das
Program Manager (ADP), NITI Aayog
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