The Bicycle Mayor of Ranchi Kanishka Poddar along with various cycling clubs of the City organised a Monsoon Distance Challenge- 2020 from June 25 to July 10. As many as 81 cyclists participated in the challenge and covered a total distance of 27,842 kms in the 15 days.

The challenge was divided in three different categories. In level 1 the participants had to ride for 250 kms whereas in level 2 and level 3 the distance was 500 kms and 750 kms respectively. Depending on their level of fitness, level 1 had 50 cyclists, level 2 had 22 while only 9 participated in level 3.

Out of all the participants 47 managed to complete the challenge. It was organised with an aim to inculcate the habit of riding regularly with special focus on new cyclists who have taken up the sport during the lockdown.

The senior most participant RP Shahi (72) covered 286 kms in 15 days amd his longest ride was of 35 kms. Akansha Bhagar completed the challenge on day 12 and her longest ride was of 46 kms. The other female participants included Kanika Malhotra, Divya Malhotra and Pooja Biyanai. Ajit Kumar Singh covered the maximum distance of 1695 kms in 15 days and his longest ride was of 154 kms.

The challenge has inspired many people to take up the sport for a healthy lifestyle. Two new cycling clubs namely Pedal Powers and enCYCLEpedia with 20 cycling enthusiasts in each have popped up during the lockdown. Over 100 new cyclists have also joined the Ranchi Cycling Club in the last two months.

During this challenge the participants also explored the hinterlands of Ranchi which are not mentioned even in Google. Some of these places include Hanuman Temple in Ulatu, Blue Pond in Balsaring, Green Pond near Kichhu, trails of Horap Forest and Ganga Ghat, Churni Waterfalls and many more.