Drenched and drained—and palpably tired—I parked my bicycle and slumped down into the bed. I had every reason to indulge in this idiosyncrasy. I had achieved what I thought was unachievable.
A few months ago, when I began cycling—a maturity onset disorder—little did I know that I would be able to complete a 150 km ride in just a little over 8 hours. Today, I was able to accomplish the mission— thanks to Ashwini Kalantri and Abhishek Raut- who also rode with me, coaxing and cajoling me into believing that the target is achievable.
Drenched in the early morning rain, tanned by the sun, tested by the strong side winds, tormented by a flat tire, and fatigued by nine-hour long pedaling, we began to question the stupidity of self-torture.
There were zillions of more interesting ways of spending a Sunday than sprinting on the soporific Sevagram roads. So we thought. We began to doubt our decision, for it was difficult to stay motivated.
But, nine hours and 150 km later, after a long day in the saddle, as we walked wobbly in our home, we felt absolutely ecstatic. Our pain and fatigue were replaced by joy and pleasure. Ashwini and Abhishek had done it before, but it was the first time that I was able to translate a long-nurtured dream into reality.
I plan to ride more miles. A fortnight later, I would be riding in a Nagpur-Wardha 200 km brevet—cycling with like-minded friends. With a bit of training, planning, and luck, I should be able to complete 200 km as well. Insha Allah!
