Prizes of Rs 10 lakhs to be offered
Pune: Over 6000 cyclists from all over Pune have registered for the Season 3 of the Punit Balan Group Apla Pune Cyclothon, proudly powered by Finolex Pipes & Fittings.
The races will be organised in the professional and amateur categories. This premier cycling event will be organised and flagged off at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Mahalunge, Balewadi, Pune, on March 17, 2024,
Krishna Prakash, IPS the Honorary Race Director, said event has seen an overwhelming response with 6000 participants registered, embodying the spirit of cycling from various walks of life including cycling groups from across Maharashtra, PCPC, Pune Police, PMC, PCMC, Southern Command, Rotary Pune District, NDRF, Indian Navy, Bombay Sappers. AFMC & Many corporates.
The cyclothon is being organised by Champ Endurance to promote cycling culture in the region. promises a day filled with energy, enthusiasm, and the shared passion for cycling, commencing at 4 AM and concluding by 10 AM.
“In our journey towards becoming a developed nation, adopting cycling as a primary mode of transport is essential. Developed countries, despite owning expensive cars, prefer cycling for most of their travel needs.” Mr Krishna Prakash added.
Ravindra Wani, the race organizer said that the Apla Pune cyclothon Will offer a prize pool of Rs 10 lakh complemented by additional gift hampers and sponsor gifts, highlighting the support and encouragement for the cycling community.
He added the Apla Pune cyclothon will be divided into two main categories to cater to different skill levels and interests:
Elite Race: Managed under the auspices of the Cycling Association of Maharashtra & the Cycling Federation of India, this race features a challenging 60km course for Men’s Elite and a 30km course for Women’s and Women’s Master Elite categories. Amateur Cyclist Ride: Open to cycling enthusiasts of all levels, this segment offers various distances – 10km (Joy Ride), 25km, 50km, and 100km.
Timings will be measured with chip technology, ensuring accurate and fair results.
The cyclothon route has been meticulously planned to cover iconic and scenic parts of Pune and PCMC, including Baner, High Street, Jupiter Hospital, Aundh, and more, aiming to inspire not just the participants but also the local residents to embrace cycling.Mr Wani added
Punit Balan, the main sponsor, expressed his pride in associating with the event, stating, “I am delighted to support the Apla Pune Cyclothon. It’s an initiative close to my heart, aiming to re-establish Pune as a city that embraces cycling.”
Finolex Pipes & Fittings, MD Shri Ajit Venkataraman, said “The Apla Pune Cyclothon Season 3 is not just a race; it’s a movement towards a healthier, more sustainable future, inviting everyone to pedal towards change”.
