The intervening night of June 22/23 was different in more ways than one. Instead of the cool confines of home, I was out under the hot and muggy Delhi sky — and it was only the beginning.
The Beginning
After a posting to Wellington, I sought to improve my fitness through running but made limited progress. I discovered cycling as a complementary activity and purchased a Scott Sub Cross 40 hybrid bike in September 2018. Initial rides proved discouraging, yet I continued training. By December, I achieved my first century ride, discovering that cycling functioned as meditation — a way of self-reflection that running never gave me.
By the following June, I had completed 150 kilometres and learned about BRMs — Brevets des Randonneurs Mondiaux — official cycling events organised globally under the Audax Club Parisien. These events come in four distances: 200, 300, 400, and 600 kilometres, each requiring completion within stipulated timeframes. Riders receive no individual support, making events completely self-assisted.
The First One — 200 km
I registered for a Delhi night BRM on June 22. Despite pre-event illness, I began the ride but experienced severe physical distress around the 90-kilometre mark. Vomiting and exhaustion forced me to stop at a roadside restaurant. I collapsed on the grass at midnight — on my birthday. A friend rescued me the following morning. It was a brutal DNF, but it taught me more than any finish would have.
Sonipat 300 km — August 31, 2019
With encouragement from Satish, one of the organisers, I attempted a 300-kilometre brevet at Sonipat. The ride proved extremely hot and exhausting, with significant cramps developing midway. Despite everything, I completed the event in 19 hours 15 minutes — well within the 20-hour limit. That finisher's medal felt like the most earned thing I had ever held.
Delhi 400 km — September 7, 2019
Encouraged by my 300 km finish, I attempted 400 kilometres the very next Saturday. I maintained steady progress throughout the day, achieving 200 kilometres in 9.5 hours. On the return leg, severe cramps developed beyond 250 kilometres. Despite fatigue and sleep deprivation, I finished in 21 hours 15 minutes — with considerable time remaining. Two down.
The Super Randonneur Target
A Super Randonneur completes all four BRM distances — 200, 300, 400, and 600 kilometres — within a single calendar year (November 1 to October 31). I realised I could achieve this within the 60 days remaining in my year. The 200 and 400 were done. The 300 was done. Only the 600 remained.
Noida 600 km — September 14, 2019
I arrived at Noida a day early to prepare properly — then overslept on the morning of the ride, arriving just as the event began. Temperatures proved unbearably hot, making progress agonisingly slow. Around the 180-kilometre mark, our group reached the halfway point. The return journey proved harder: darkness, two punctures, and navigation difficulties. I reached the hotel at 2:30 AM, far later than planned, and allowed myself minimal sleep before pushing on.
The second day was hotter still. I questioned every decision but remained motivated by the approaching goal. I managed cramps through electrolyte consumption and constant self-talk. Entering Delhi was the most torturous phase — rain reduced visibility, traffic offered no safe cycling space, and countless turns complicated navigation. I finished at 5:30 PM after 36 hours of riding. No emotional surge at the line — only concern about saddle sores. Three down.
Sonipat 200 km — September 21, 2019
For my final brevet, only three riders participated in the 200-kilometre category. The ride was relatively uneventful, the weather manageable. I completed the distance in 8 hours 50 minutes. That was it. I was a Super Randonneur — all four distances, 21 days.
What Cycling Taught Me
Headwinds and tailwinds parallel life's support systems. Riders often credit themselves during favourable conditions while blaming external factors during difficulties. In cycling, as in life, patience through unfavourable situations and capitalising on favourable ones is everything.
On time: it is never about availability. It is always about choice. I manage my schedule by rising at 3 AM for summer rides, sometimes cycling from 8 PM to 4 AM before the office. Success requires prioritising ambitions over comfort.
Tips for Beginners
- Research and educate yourself before investing in equipment. The right bike for the wrong use wastes money and motivation.
- Start with short rides and gradually increase distances. Patience compounds.
- Ensure proper bike fit — discomfort at 50 km becomes agony at 300 km.
- Develop minor repair skills. You will be alone at 2 AM with a puncture.
- Progress towards brevets and eventually ultra-distance rides. There is always a next distance.
I credit my family — particularly my wife and son — for sacrificing weekends and leisurely activities to support this journey. I encourage everyone to pursue cycling, or to find their own passion before it becomes too late.