Cycling in Goa is gaining popularity as the day go by with a number of cycling groups and people using cycles as a mode of healthy transport. This is visible all over Goa. The number of cycling clubs in the State number around 10 and there are in excess of 6000 cyclists in the State. The increase in the number of fitness conscious individuals have played a role in the growing popularity of this healthy pastime.
A reason to start cycling
It was the health benefits that came from intense physical activity that attracted Adv Shashikant Naik in the first place. He started cycling 7 to 8 years ago to refresh his mind and control his then high cholesterol. He said, “It did wonders for me and helped bring my health under control. I used to go cycling everyday but now I go running. I now cycle three times a week. I have also done Goa to Rameshwaram cycling journey in 83 hours, which is 1200 kms. I have also done the 200 kms, 300 kms, 400 kms and 600 kms in one year.” In addition to being an advocate, he is also a nature photographer. He does some serious bird watching. Earlier, he used to go everyday but now he does it every alternate day. Now he is preparing for the triathlon and has added swimming. He loves the fresh air and the aroma of nature in the morning which excites him. He says the best time to train is in the monsoons when even if you sweat and feel tired, you still don’t get dehydrated.
Amey Kamat of the Panjim Cycling Club took it up three years ago, to control his weight. He had no health issues, no blood pressure issues or diabetes and wanted to stay healthy. He tries to cycle four times a week. He says it is a problem during the monsoons but he still goes out. Every time, he goes out he does 50-100 kms. He has also done the 200 kms, 300 kms, 400 kms, 600 kms rides. He has done it twice and is a Super Randonneur. He intends to do this for the rest of his life.
Raju Keni was overweight and a lack of physical activity was causing health problems. He took up cycling in 2015 and changed his life while he had fun travelling around Goa, without any emissions as he put it. He said, “I am now fit and as a Super Randonneur and it is the best thing I have ever done”.
Making new friends
For Jay Vernekar, a 62 year old businessman, it was an opportunity to get some serious workout and meet people with similar interests. He said, “In a week, I go cycling twice a week. On Sundays, I meet the group and go for an intensive session which is great because the group is there. It adds to the atmosphere”. For Amey Kamat the long cycling sessions are made easier by the presence of people who are there for you. Finton said cycling in the villages around Panjim was made enjoyable while cycling with friends.
For many of these cyclists, it is something they intend to do till the end of their lives due to how it makes them feel, the company of friends and the vibe that accompanies every cycling trip they undertake.