There are several compelling reasons to take up cycling such as keeping fit and improving mental health. What can be better than doubling it up with a social cause such as donating blood? The Noida Cycling Club organised a ride on March 6 to support a blood donation camp and also to promote fitness as a way of life.

The itinerary was somewhat revised this time. The Great India Place (GIP) and  Noida Gate served as the starting points, followed by a delicious breakfast at Khan Market Pakora Wala. The distance was only 42 km which was very much doable for the enthusiastic NCC riders. 

The cyclists kickstarted their journey from GIP at 6:30 am, fraternising with each other and clicking pictures. Veteran cyclists gave them lots of tips to the new riders, allaying their fears.

Though they belonged to different age groups and occupations, what united them was a shared love for cycling and fitness. Though disadvantaged by the breeze, the cyclists performed to their utmost ability. Steadfast Nutrition Peanut Butter was the ultimate fuel, supplying them with regular nourishment and keeping their energy levels high. The riders made a pitstop at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, which formed the perfect backdrop for some lovely pictures and enabled them to reinvigorate themselves.

The cyclists had been so busy enjoying one other’s company, that they were unaware that they had arrived at their delectable breakfast location in record time.It was 8:30 am and the spring morning ambiance at Khan Market was so lovely that the riders decided to remain there for 45 minutes. The place is so serene and picturesque that one of them remarked that he would surely return. Tea, pakoras, and unrestricted conversation were on the menu. The welcome break rejuvenated the riders  for the remainder of the journey. After reversing their bikes, they were ready to take full advantage of their ability to reach their destination.  They continued on to the ending point and reached the Noida Stadium, the venue of the blood donation camp, at 10 am. 

The presence of fellow riders at the Blood Donation camp gave the cyclists a boost of motivation. The camp, conducted by the Laxmi Narayan Mandir, was packed to capacity. People came out in full force to support and donate blood. Among those donating blood were the cyclists of the Noida Cycling Club who were unable to attend the ride owing to a time constraint.

 A sizeable number of people came forward to donate blood. The organisers thanked all  the riders and individuals who had contributed to the cause. They distributed certificates, gift baskets and Tee shirts to individuals who donated blood.The riders thanked the Noida Cycling Club  team for conducting the ride. 

Joining the Noida Cycling Club not only ensures a healthy lifestyle but also challenges you to become the greatest version of yourself.