For six senior cyclists from Pune and Mumbai, retirement never meant a slow or quiet journey. Earlier this winter, they packed their bicycles into boxes, flew to Bangkok, assembled the cycles at the airport, and rode straight into a demanding 41-day ride across Southeast Asia.
Travelling with only essential gear, no more than 10–12 kg each, the group cycled through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, covering 3,830 km. The days on the road were never the same. Some stretches were long highways, others narrow village roads or coastal routes shaped by changing weather. The cyclists often stopped along the way, speaking to locals, visiting schools, and sharing small moments that turned the ride into more than just a physical challenge.
The six-member team was led by 68-year-old Pune cyclist Sanjay Katti. Riding with him were Ramakant Mahadik (72), Dhananjay Madan (67), Sanjay Kumthekar (62), Raju (Anand) Patil (59), and Monish Chakraborty (55). Though they come from very different professional backgrounds, including corporate roles, the pharmaceutical sector, and police service, they are united by years of experience in long-distance cycling.
The journey began in Bangkok on December 6. From there, the cyclists rode through Ayutthaya before entering Laos and reaching Vientiane. From Pakse, the group rode into Cambodia, stopping at Angkor Wat in Siem Reap before continuing to Phnom Penh. Vietnam was the final country on their route. Starting in Ho Chi Minh City, they made their way north to Hanoi, a demanding stretch of nearly 1,800 km that took them through several towns and varied landscapes.
Most mornings started before the sun was up, and many days ended only after 80 or 90 kilometres on the road. Breaks were planned, and the team stayed strict about safety throughout the ride. The terrain was tough and the days were tiring, but the journey continued smoothly, without injuries, health scares, or major problems.
The cyclists reached Pune again on February 4. They came back tired, of course, but satisfied. Along with photos and route notes, they returned with memories from the road, friendships that grew stronger with each day, and the quiet pride of having seen the journey through to the end.
