Temperatures have been soaring in May, but that hasn’t deterred the members of the Noida Cycling Club (NCC) from going on weekend rides. This Sunday was no different. The NCC riders challenged themselves to an adrenalin-pumping ‘Beat the Heat’ ride from Noida’s Great India Place to the Buddh International Circuit and back, covering a distance of 85 km. 

The numbers were few, but the willingness to fulfill the challenge was tremendous. Unperturbed by the vast distance and scorching heat, the participants assembled at the designated starting point at 5.30 am. More cyclists joined them at Noida’s Mahamaya Flyover and the Advant Navis Business Park, a key office hub located on the Noida Expressway.

The NCC crew and admins provided full support to the riders, issuing an advisory and making all the necessary safeguards for their safety and comfort. They ensured that the cyclists drank plenty of fluids throughout the ride. To minimise sunburn, it was proposed that all body portions be covered. The riders trailed them like a train to its engine.

The bandwagon finally arrived at the F1 Buddh International Circuit. The roads were spacious and the area quiet; the muffled sounds of cars and motorcycles could be heard from a distance. The cyclists enjoyed their ride in the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

They prepped themselves to ensure that the last leg of the journey was completed before sun rise, which would make the ride tougher and slower.  As they started back, the sun rose. Yet, the riders pedalled on. The NCC crew created several videos to boost their spirits and keep their zeal alive.

The cyclists made a pitstop for breakfast at Noida’s popular eating joint, Chacha Chaudhary Poha Centre, in Sector 137 in record time. The cool shikanji and the nutritious poha was the ideal rejuvenation. 

The ride ended once the cyclists reached the Great India Place. A few of them chose to continue 20 km ahead to achieve the 100 km milestone. Their fellow riders cheered them on and wished them luck for the journey ahead. 

The amateurs also shared their experience of riding in a group and asked the NCC team to organise similar record-breaking rides in the future.