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LIFE LESSONS ON WHEELS

Writer's picture: Shivanand DandavatimathShivanand Dandavatimath

My 1,111 km cycling relay from Dharwad to Dhanushkodi in 60 hours was an incredible journey! Endurance cycling teaches profound life lessons, both physically and mentally. Based on my experience, here are some key takeaways:


Resilience: Pushing Through the Pain


Just like in life, long-distance cycling tests your endurance. We all were cozy sitting in our AC rooms or office sitting on luxury couches. But during our cycling there were times when fatigue, heat, cold, and headwinds sitting on just few inches of hard saddle made the ride tough, but pushing through those challenges built resilience.


In life, obstacles will come, but persistence leads to success.


Adaptability: Facing the Unexpected


We encountered changing weather—hot and humid days, chilling cold nights, and strong headwinds. Though you have extravaganza bathroom at your house Who had expected that you will be taking shower behind the restaurant in open air, while your friend is spraying chilled water with a pipe??Have you ever dreamt of using petrol pump washroom in midnight?you may have KING SIZE bed at your bedroom, but sleeping on that 2ft/5ft car seat is different pleasure.


Life is unpredictable too, and the key to success is adapting to situations instead of resisting them.


3. Teamwork & Support System


In a relay, every cyclist plays a crucial role. No one can do it alone. Life is similar—you need a strong support system, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, to help you move forward.


4. Mental Strength Over Physical Limits


At times, exhaustion may have tempted you to stop, but your mindset kept you going.


In life, our biggest battles are mental, not physical. Overcoming self-doubt and pushing beyond limits leads to growth.


5. Planning & Preparation Matter


A successful ride isn’t just about pedaling—it’s about training, nutrition, hydration, and strategic rest.

Similarly, in life, preparation is key to achieving big goals.


6. Enjoy the Journey, Not Just the Destination


While reaching Dhanushkodi was the goal, the real experience was in the journey—the landscapes, the challenges, the camaraderie.

In life, focusing only on end goals can make us forget to enjoy the process.


7. Respect for Nature & Simplicity


Being on the road for long hours connects you to nature. You likely realized how small human beings are compared to the vast world. Simple things—fresh air, water, and a smooth road—can bring great joy.


8. Discipline & Consistency Win


You didn’t ride 1,111 km in one sprint; it was about consistent effort over time. The same applies to any goal in life—whether fitness, career, or personal growth—

small daily efforts lead to big achievements.


9. Pain is Temporary, Glory is Forever


The soreness, cramps, and struggles fade, but the satisfaction of completing the ride stays.

In life, short-term hardships lead to long-term rewards.


10. The Power of Self-Belief


Many might have doubted if such a feat was possible. But believing in yourself and taking that first pedal stroke made it happen.

Life’s greatest achievements start with self-belief and action.


11. Life doesn’t Bias

We had Two strong lady riders who too faced the same challenges as any other male riders but came out of them very strongly. We had people from all walks of life, Doctors, Engineers, Architects, Businessman Employers. So life doesn’t discriminate among any gender or social status. Everyone has to have their slice of Pie.


The lesson: “Life doesn’t discriminate; effort and determination define success.”


A final thought: What if we all approached life like an endurance ride—embracing challenges, helping each other, and enjoying the journey?

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