As dawn broke on July 20, 2024, the annual Kora ride once again brought together cycling enthusiasts from across the globe. This cherished tradition, born in Nepal in 2011, has blossomed into an international event that unites riders worldwide. The Singapore edition has been an integral part of my life for the past seven years, and this year’s ride proved to be another unforgettable experience.

The Ride

Our journey commenced at 6:30 AM as I pedalled three kilometres from my home to our meeting point at East Coast Park. I joined ten fellow riders hailing from Singapore, Australia, the UK, and Nepal. Our diverse group embarked on a scenic route from the Tanah Merah Coastal Highway to Changi Village. After refuelling with a hearty breakfast, we continued through Lorong Halus and MacPherson, concluding our ride at the Himalayan Kitchen, a Nepali restaurant that served as our final destination (at least for a few of us).

Weather and Experience

Fortune smiled upon us with enjoyable weather conditions. Temperatures hovered around 29-30 degrees Celsius, and an overcast sky provided a cool canopy for our ride. This ideal climate allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience, covering distances ranging from 50 to 70 kilometres. The varying routes each rider took, as evidenced by our Strava maps, highlighted the personal nature of each participant’s journey.

Cultural Exchange

The Kora ride transcends mere physical activity and is a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and friendship. Riders from various backgrounds converge, sharing their unique perspectives and life stories. This year’s event offered an excellent opportunity to reconnect with old friends and forge new bonds, all while promoting health and wellness. Our post-ride gathering at the Himalayan Kitchen was a culinary highlight, where we savoured an array of authentic Nepali dishes, much to the delight of our international companions.

Charity Efforts

This year’s ride took on an additional dimension of purpose as we raised funds to maintain the Nepalgunj pump track in Nepal. Built last year, this facility requires ongoing support to continue serving the local mountain biking community. I’m thrilled to report that our efforts yielded approximately 200 Singapore dollars (roughly 20,000 Nepalese rupees). This donation will soon be dispatched to the Nepalgunj pump track management team, contributing directly to the growth and sustainability of mountain biking in Nepal.

The Kora Ride Singapore Edition 2024 perfectly fused fitness, cultural exchange, and philanthropy. It reaffirmed the power of community and the importance of maintaining physical and social health. Reflecting on this year’s success, we eagerly anticipate future rides committed to nurturing this tradition of global unity and support within the cycling community.

For those interested in joining this inspiring movement, please visit mykorachallenge.com for more information on upcoming Kora rides and how to participate.