Chennai, July 18 (Representative) The second edition of HCL Cyclothon will be held here on October six. Th HCL Group, a leading global conglomerate, on Thursday announced the launch of the second edition of the Cyclothon Chennai 2024 and unveiled the event details and the registration process. Following two successful editions in Noida and one in Chennai with participation from over 5000 cyclists, the HCL Cyclothon Chennai 2024 will take place on October 6 starting from Mayajaal Multiplex on the ECR. Powered by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) and under the aegis of the Cycling Federation of India, this event offers an impressive prize pool of Rs 33 lakhs. Registrations are open until September 22, 2024. Addressing a press conference, Mr Meghanatha Reddy, Member Secretary, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), said the theme of this edition is “ChangeYourGear” emphasizing the transformative power of cycling and its positive impact on individual well-being and environmental sustainability. The previous edition of HCL Cyclothon Chennai was held in October 2023 and witnessed the participation of over 1,100 cyclists pedalling on the ECR Road. The race will start and finish at Mayajaal Multiplex, covering a route that includes MGM Dizzee World, Dhanlakshmi Srinivasan College of Engineering, and Muttukadu Boat House, with the route tailored as per different categories.
Mr. Sundar Mahalingam, President of Strategy at HCL Group, said, “By cultivating a culture of cycling, we aspire to inspire individuals and communities to come together, stay active, and contribute to a greener, healthier environment, truly embodying our brand purpose, ‘Human Potential Multiplied’. “Through HCL Cyclothon, we aim to transform the cycling landscape in India by motivating people to take up cycling not just as a sport but as their way to a healthy lifestyle. Cycling is rapidly gaining traction in Chennai, and the city’s infrastructure is evolving to support this growing trend”, he said. The Tamil Nadu government strongly supports sports events like the HCL Cyclothon, recognizing the importance of cycling in promoting physical fitness and mental well-being”, he said. Mr. Onkar Singh, Secretary General, Asian Cycling Confederation said, “Our combined efforts with HCL to promote cycling as both a lifestyle and a competitive sport are truly admirable. The rise of cycling in India is inspiring, and with HCL’s significant contributions, we look forward to a bright and exciting future for the sport in the country”. Cycling Federation of India, the national governing body of cycle racing in India will provide technical support basis their knowledge and expertise.