- Race is scheduled on October 6, 2024 and will start and finish at Mayajaal Multiplex, ECR, Chennai
- The theme is #ChangeYourGear which focuses on the transformative power of cycling and its positive impact on individual well-being
Chennai, July 18, 2024: HCL Group, a leading global conglomerate, today announced the launch of the second edition of the HCL Cyclothon Chennai 2024. Unveiling event details and the registration process, HCL extended an invitation to cycling enthusiasts and the local community. 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, 2024, starting from Mayajaal Multiplex. 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. For more details, visit www.hclcyclothon.com
Dr. Atulya Misra (IAS), Additional Chief Secretary at the Government of Tamil Nadu, and Meghanatha Reddy, Member Secretary of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), were present as the chief guests. Dignitaries such as Onkar Singh,Secretary General at the Asian Cycling Confederation and Sundar Mahalingam, President of Strategy at HCL Corporation, were also present to announce the Second Edition of HCL Cyclothon Chennai.
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 1100 cyclists pedaling 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 Mattukadu Boat House, with the route tailored as per different categories.
Present at the launch event, Dr. Atulya Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary, Govt. of Tamil Nadu said, “We are excited to witness the second edition of the HCL Cyclothon in Chennai. HCL’s dedication to promoting sports and fitness through such initiatives is commendable. This event not only fosters community spirit and athleticism but also contributes to a healthier future for our city. By encouraging active participation in sports, HCL is making a positive impact on Chennai’s development.”
Commenting on the announcement, 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.”
Remarking on the launch announcement, Mr. Onkar Singh, Secretary General at the Asian Cycling Federation 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.
The event aims to provide a platform for professional and amateur cyclists to showcase their talent and inspire a new generation to take up cycling as a sport in India. The event details are as follows:
| Category | Description | Age-group | Distance |
| Professionals (CFI-certified cyclists) | Only CFI-licensed cyclists can participate in this category. Prize money will be given to the top 10 male and female finishers including the top 3 female and male teams. | 18-35 years | 55km Road Race |
| Amateur | This is open for the Road Race and MTB (mountain bike) categories. Prize money to be given to the top 3 males and females across age categories- 18-30, 30-40,40-50 and 50+ | Elite: 18-35 years; Masters: 35+ years | 55km Road race 24km Road race 24km MTB race (Mountain Bike) |
| Green Ride | It’s a non-competitive ride to encourage cycling as an activity to stay fit and healthy. | 16+ years | 15km |
