Citizens ride high on bicycles for healthy living and environment



CycloGreen 2013, a cycle marathon celebrating the World Health Day, was kicked off from the La Martiniere Boys' College grounds on Sunday morning. The event was organised by The Times of India and Avon Cycles in association with Shri Ram Swaroop Memorial University and co-sponsored by Best Foods.

The event was flagged off by chief minister
Akhilesh Yadav in the presence of health minister Ahmed Hasan and principal secretary medical health Pravir Kumar.

Speaking on the occasion, Akhilesh said, "The very fact that such an event is being organised is a strong indication that people have realised the importance of staying healthy. I hope participants inculcate a healthy habit of cycling and combat lifestyle diseases effectively. Further, the use of cycle, an eco-friendly symbol of progress, is praiseworthy as it indicates that the common man knows how to fulfill his responsibilities towards maintaining a clean and pollution-free environment."

As part of the event, a 5 km cyclothon (for women and kids), a 2km cyclothon (for senior citizens) and a 8km cyclothon (for men) was organised. This Health on Wheels event saw impressive footfalls with more than 1,200 enthusiasts taking part in it. The participants included army officers, bureaucrats, children and corporate honchos.

The event proved to be a big hit with those in attendance. Sharing his experience, Alok Yadav, a bank manager, said, "The marathon was well organised. Everything, right from the concept to the execution, was perfect. Personally speaking, this event provided me with an opportunity to engage in a healthy yet challenging physical activity. Besides, it also allowed me to socialise and spend my weekend gainfully."

Medical assistance on the venue was provided by 108 emergency services. The event concluded with the prize distribution ceremony in which 150 winners, selected through a lucky draw, were given Avon cycles. Participation certificates were also given to all the participants. The beverage partner for cyclothon was Pepsi, Deeksha Advertising was the branding partner while the event was powered by Radio Mirchi.
Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/Citizens-ride-high-on-bicycles-for-healthy-living-and-environment/articleshow/19435835.cms