Stuck at home? Need not worry, as most of us are home-bound. But there are plenty of ways you can get involved and show your support. Take a look at these exciting events I’ve compiled for you.
Background:
The United Nations (UN) marks international days to celebrate achievements and create public awareness on issues of global concern.
‘Pollution’ being the number 1 priority, June 3rd was declared as the International World Bicycle Day by the UN General Assembly in 2018.
‘Bicycle’ is facilitating humans for over 200 years. Therefore, acknowledging its novelty, versatility and it’s capability to be an affordable, clean, healthy and eco-friendly transport, the UN formally recognized the contribution of this humble machine.
How a bicycle benefits society?
- A bicycle is sustainable transport
- It serves as a tool for human progress
- Bicycling fosters creativity and social engagement
- Helps to connect with natural surroundings
- Bicycling is good for physical fitness and exercise
- It’s a great sporting activity and enhances competitive spirit
- Increases family bonding and useful for recreational purpose
- Bicycle gives you freedom
Founding of the World Bicycle Day:
This day couldn’t have been possible without organised efforts of campaigners and cycling associations from across the globe who came together and made it happen.
Professor Leszek Sibilski with his students from the United States led a major campaign to promote a UN Resolution for World Bicycle Day. Eventually, the campaign gained support of several countries, nudging UN to notify it as a day of global observance.
Moving into 3rd year of its celebration, Professor Leszek Sibilski says …
“My bet for the future is on the bicycle and an ever-increasing global cycling literacy.
Take a ride with me (us) and celebrate World Bicycle Day not only on June 3rd, but every day thereafter”.
Ways to participate?
Attend a Webinar:
The European Cycling Federation (ECF) will conduct a Webinar, ‘Rethinking Mobility: Cycling for a Safe COVID-19 Recovery and Beyond.
To promote cycling, the ECF has issued a set of recommendations for European nationals and local authorities.
The same will be presented and discussed with the leading experts on June 3, Click here to register – Rethinking Mobility
Corona Cycling Stories:
The Dutch Cycling Embassy (DCE) which represents Netherlands, the world’s leading cycling nation has announced a worldwide Social Media Campaign.
Participate by replying to this question in-short, “How has your bicycle kept you happy, healthy, and mobile during the corona crisis?”.
Post your replies on your social handles with a photograph using the hashtag #coronacycling and you might get featured by DCE. More details here – World Bicycle Day Social Media Campaign
Go Zwift:
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) will conduct four Zwift rides with pro-cyclists viz., Chris Froome, Chole Dygert, Jolanda Neff and Victor Campenaerts at 4 different time slots of the day on June 3rd. Find out more – @UCI_cycling
Read a Book:
‘AWAY’ is about seven real adventures in the great wilderness of the Himalaya and Alaska, by a long distance cyclist Dhruv Bogra.
Written during lockdown and published recently, the e-book on Amazon Kindle can be downloaded at a special price of 99/- rupees using this link – AWAY – Kindle Edition
Get Creative:
Bicycle Mayors of India and members of facebook group ‘Bicycle World’ invites you to celebrate June 3rd with bicycles, family and friends.
Decorate your bikes, take a picture with your family and upload it by 30th May. Enroll using this – Google Form
Buy a New Bicycle:
“To give any less than your best is to sacrifice a gift” – Steve Prefontaine.
The best gift you can give yourself or your dear one’s is a bicycle. Visit your nearby local shop and bring your favorite bike home.
Ride and Win:
Bicycle Network, Australia’s biggest bike riding network invites you to ‘Ride and Win’.
Share your photos and stories from your ride to work, school or wherever your bike takes you.
Tag @BicycleNetwork and stand a chance to win a gift card worth $100. Read more about this contest – Bicycle Network Events
Watch a Movie:
Rohit Mahadev, a professional photographer in Mumbai will release an entertaining short film “CYCOLOGY” on his youtube channel ‘Rohit Shringare’, on 3rd June (Subscribe to receive notification).
The story is about transformation of a person, from a sedentary lifestyle to an active and fit personality.
Run time: Under 10 minutes.
Watch the Official Teaser.
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Author: Vijay Malhotra, Mumbai
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