WE RIDE FOR A CAUSE, SAYS ROTARY TEAM
Cycling team combines passion for sport with giving back to society
ROTARY Cycling Club (ROCC) team, which is preparing for the NST C-Cycle Challenge next month, believes in riding for cause.
Its spokesman, Cindy Teh, said the team combined a passion for the sport with giving back to society.
“We cycle for fun and a cause. We have supported charity initiatives for haemodialysis, animal welfare and education for refugees in Malaysia through cycling.”
Teh added that last year, the team participated in charity races that covered almost 900km from Kuala Lumpur to Hatyai, and managed to help raise funds totalling RM46,920.
“It gives us the satisfaction of knowing that those who are in need are not being neglected. To us, cycling is more than just a hobby.”
The ROCC team, which comprises 46 members from various professional backgrounds, was formed in 2014.
“Cycling is a great way to bond. You can have fun interacting with the neighbourhood and the environment, in the company of good friends. It’s a healthy sport, really,” she added.
Team manager Tan Kok Lan said the team members treated each other like a family.
“The team will meet every week for training and reserve one day to bond with each other.”
Teh said the team usually trained during weekdays, by doing night rides twice a week that cover a distance of 25km.
“We have weekend rides as well which are longer, depending on the routes, but it will be between 75 and 150km.”
Teh said pre-planning was important for cycling trips.
“We will determine the distance, how fast they should ride and when they should stop for a rest.
“Normally there are two teams of cyclists — the first with a faster pace and the other with a moderate speed.
“A sweeper will monitor them to ensure no one gets left behind.”
For those who were just picking up the sport, they could start with the routes close to home and use lanes dedicated for cyclists, Teh said.
She said one could find a suitable bike within one’s budget. “It’s a bit like buying a car. “Stick to your budget and look for a bike which suits your physique to prevent discomfort and injury.”
Teh said the best way was to check out a reliable local bike store and let the experts assist in finding the perfect bicycle.
In preparation for the NST CCycle Challenge, Teh said the team would intensify its training schedule.
“The plan is to monitor our nutrition intake and how to refuel effectively during race day. Our captain will delegate roles and responsibilities.
“We hope we can complete the race in a good time.
“Our team captain’s emphasis is on safety of riders and to ensure that no one is left behind.”