PANAJI
All the 28 cyclists who participated in the first-ever all-women cycling ride organised by Xaxti Riders on Sunday, completed the 100km ride.
“The ride was organised to make Goa’s women aware of their capabilities and to showcase the spirit of sisterhood,” explained ‘Go Girls Go 100’ coordinator Binota Nadkarni. “By the time the ride ended, the self-doubt and scepticism had transformed into reassurance and determination.”
The cyclists, aged from 18 to 67 years, were a mix of doctors, architects, and other professionals. There were mothers and daughters who rode together, bridging the generational gap pulled by the power of the road and the charm of the wheel.
One of the highlights of the ride was the participation of Dr Belinda Viegas-Mueller. She is mentioned in the ‘Limca Book of Records’ as the only Indian woman cyclist to have completed three 1,200km cycle rides in a single calendar year.
“Throughout the ride, Dr Belinda led from the front and rear to ensure every woman reached her goal,” Nadkarni said. “Her role today inspired a few of us beyond cycling.”
The cyclists were treated to nourishing breakfast and refreshments, chilled wet-towels and refreshing mist on the face, to keep them going. Each cyclist was presented with a finisher’s medal.
