HCG 24-hour Cycling Challenge, with nearly 100 riders, to cover Medak Cathedral

It is time to kick off the cycling calendar, and the Hyderabad Cyclists Group (HGC) are going to do it in great style. For this bunch, cycling is not just a sport but a passion and way to a healthy lifestyle. In pursuit of it, they are starting 2026 with a 24-hour Medak Cycling Challenge.

The aim is to attract cyclists to test their physical endurance and mental fitness. Nearly 100 riders are taking up this challenge, which starts simultaneously from two locations in the Twin Cities at 6 am on January 31.

The route vetted by the HCG has green pastures meandering through the scenic beauty of the Medak district, including the historic Medak Cathedral

The cyclists from Secunderabad will start from the HCG Cycle Station at Suchitra in Old Alwal, while the Hyderabad cyclists will start from the Narsingi Cycling Hub of the Solar Cycling track. The two streams of cyclists will merge at Dundigal and ride through Narsapur.

The route vetted by the HCG has green pastures meandering through the scenic beauty of the Medak district, including the historic Medak Cathedral. The ride will cover a distance of 308.73 km with an elevation of 1,570 m. The challenge is a good opportunity for the riders to add to their personal statistics in the beginning of the year.

Six women cyclists among the riders

Among the riders, six women are taking part in the challenge so far. The riders, whose ages range from 17 years to 74 years, are eagerly waiting for the D-Day. The registrations are open till January 30. A few of the riders are expected to join the same day.

“The ultra endurance challenge we are attracting seasoned riders and the ones who have taken up cycling in recent times. Though the challenge is self-supported, we have made arrangements for a support vehicle for hydration, a bike mechanic, and a first aid kit,” said Ravinder Nandanoori, founder of HCG.

All riders must complete 18 hours of moving time within one continuous 24-hour attempt

Explaining the purpose of the challenge, Ravinder said, “We are preparing the cyclists for long-distance endurance with a focus on self-sufficiency. When they ride in such a large group, they will get confidence to go any distance in the future and on their own.”

All riders must complete 18 hours of moving time within one continuous 24-hour attempt. The riders can take rest for up to six hours, including meals and breaks. They are advised to take up safety measures like lights and reflective jackets. Though it is a non-competitive ride, the riders are to follow a few dos and don’ts for safety purposes.