There are those who dread challenges, and then there is Prateek Thakur, who has embraced every challenge, elevating cycling as a sport to new heights in Noida. Prateek, a software engineer by profession and an IIT-Roorkee passout, has not only conquered dozens of competitions but also dedicated his life to fostering a community of passionate cyclists through the Noida Cycling Club (NCC).

Prateek’s choice to join the Noida Cycling Club in 2016 was motivated by a desire to be active and fit. However, his two wheels had other plans for him, transforming Prateek from a recreational cyclist to an adrenaline-fuelled passionate mountain biker. Through his unyielding passion and ambition to push his limits every day, Prateek helped turn the NCC into a perfect platform for like-minded cyclists seeking exhilarating rides and unforgettable experiences. He started cycling professionally in 2017 and finished in the top three in most races. Prateek won a podium at the MTB Shimla 2021, one of the toughest two-day stage races held in the Himalayas and the one in 2019 (Team of Two Category) at the same championship. Prateek won a silver medal in the MTB Shimla 2021 championship, silver in the Aravalli Trail Hunters (ATH) Season Finale 2019 and 2018, and bronze in the MTB Shimla 2019.

Prateek’s unwavering dedication to ride with the NCC and his commitment to take the Club from a handful of people to a community of thousands won him recognition and a greater role within the Club. He was invited to become one of the group’s administrators by Mr Aman Puri, founder, Noida Cycling Club. For him, being an administrator was more than just a title. It was an opportunity to inspire and motivate others to embrace an active lifestyle through cycling. Witnessing the transformation of his friends who took up cycling after being inspired by his dedication filled Prateek with a sense of fulfillment that money could never buy.

Prateek’s ideology lies in a great understanding of his body and mind. He firmly believes that excelling in any sport requires not just skill and technique, but also a deep connection with physical self. Whether it is conquering a marathon or embarking on a long cycling expedition, Prateek has always identified the importance of listening to his body and refraining from pushing himself when not in the best condition. This approach not only ensures his well-being but also enables him to perform at his peak during every ride.

Prateek’s dedication and hard work enabled him to learn various skills and gave him life-changing experiences. Support and sponsorship from Merida India EAS and Steadfast Nutrition played a pivotal role in propelling his excellence in the sport.

When asked about his early cycling experiences, Prateek recalls a couple of casual rides with a friend. Little did he know that these rides would spark an unyielding passion for cycling, leading him to NCC’s vibrant community. He believed that more people in Noida, especially those in the corporate world, should adopt cycling as a way to maintain their fitness and experience the joy of an active lifestyle, inspiring him to become an active member of the Noida Cycling Club.

For Prateek, the NCC became more than just a club- it was a family of passionate individuals coming together to explore their love for cycling. With each pedal stroke, they not just conquered distances but also broke barriers and inspired a new era of cyclists in Noida.

Nowadays, Prateek trains himself for upcoming races. He regularly does indoor training. On weekends, he participates in club rides. He has also incorporated running into his fitness regime, which helps him excel day by day. Prateek’s journey with the NCC is a testament to his belief in the power of pushing boundaries. From conquering rugged mountain terrains to exploring picturesque locales around Delhi, the Noida Cycling Club motivated him and helped to unleash his true potential while surrounded by a fun and supportive group.