GERMAN HAND CYCLIST STEFAN VOORMANS TO RIDE 510 KMS IN MAHARASHTRA

I have been writing about many recreational cycling events but this one is for a unique cause. Come January 23rd and Maharashtra will see an international figure Stefan Voormans who will lead the cyclothon for a noble cause. Ratna Nidhi Charitable trust is organizing this cyclothon to raise awareness about orthopedic disability in India.

Stefan Voormans will start the ride from Wai in Maharashtra on 23rd January and finish the ride in five days at Chembur in Mumbai on 27th January 2024 covering a total distance of 510 kms.

The ride aims to spread the spirit of inclusivity and recognizing ‘Ability in Disability’. 54-year-young Stefan Voormans who himself is wheelchair bound due to a road accident in the past say’s “The purpose of the ride is two-fold, first to raise awareness about orthopedic disability and show the world that even we can cycle. Secondly, to inspire people to come forward and help those in need by donating money or prosthetics and give a new life to the needy individuals”.

In an exclusive video interview for this blog which will be published next week on our YouTube channel Pedal and Tring Tring (and updated in this article as well), Stefan explains “I trust my team and have complete faith in them to complete the cyclothon successfully. The first time I did this cyclothon in the year 2020, everyone supported me, and the event was well organized, and we have a lot of learnings from that event which has helped us to plan and prepare for this upcoming ride”.

Stefan is uses a Hand Bicycle which is made in Germany and transported to India especially for this cyclothon event. Talking about his bicycle Stefan told us that even though the bike is not particularly suited for Indian roads, but I think I will manage as the cause is noble. The bike is made of Aluminum weighing 13 kgs with nine gears, Shimano shifters, Caliper brakes and can attain a top speed of 35-40 kms. The bike is ridden in a recliner position and requires focus and concentration while cycling. The cost of the bike is 8000 euro which is nearly 7.2 lakhs INR. Stefan will have a lead car in the front and back and an ambulance support and full time bike technician while he is cycling.