Renu Singhi, who began cycling at 52 and rides 70 km daily in Jaipur, and Gareema Shankar, a Delhi mother who overcame fear to cycle boldly on city roads, have become symbols of empowerment for Indian women. Their friendship and shared passion for ultra-distance cycling showcase how determination and self-care can break stereotypes.
- Renu rides 70 km daily and began cycling at 52.
- Gareema overcame doubts to cycle on Delhi roads openly.
- They bonded over completing major European cycling challenges.
What happened
Renu Singhi from Jaipur started cycling at age 52 and has since made it a daily practice, often covering 70 km before handling her regular routine, along with evening training. Her achievements include completing the Paris-Brest-Paris long-distance cycling event in a record time, inspiring many women across India. Gareema Shankar, a 44-year-old mother from Delhi, initially cycled only in parks and kept her passion hidden due to societal pressures and family expectations.
Their paths crossed in 2022 at the London-Edinburgh-London cycling event, where Gareema admired Renu’s remarkable cycling prowess. Encouraged by Renu’s journey and age-defying accomplishments, Gareema embraced cycling more openly, overcoming her doubts and becoming confident to ride on public roads. Their friendship grew from a shared passion, proving that age and social norms can be challenged through sports and self-belief.
Why it feels good
Both women’s stories embody resilience and empowerment. Renu, as a grandmother, chose to start cycling not for anyone else but for her own joy and well-being, breaking the stereotype around age and fitness. Gareema’s journey from hiding her hobby to proudly riding on city roads highlights the positive impact of finding one’s identity through self-care and hobbies, even amidst life's challenges like motherhood and work pressures.
Their example is uplifting because it conveys that it is never too late to start something new or push beyond perceived limits. It invites readers to reflect on how societal expectations can be transformed by individual acts of courage. Their success in ultra-distance cycling also shows the possibilities when passion meets consistency, giving hope to many women and men who struggle with age or societal barriers.
What to enjoy or watch next
Following Renu and Gareema’s inspiring journeys opens doors to discovering more about cycling challenges around the world, including the iconic Paris-Brest-Paris and London-Edinburgh-London events. Watching documentaries or videos of women athletes breaking barriers in sports can further inspire others to take similar brave steps in their own lives.
Locally, cycling clubs and women’s empowerment groups may offer opportunities to join community rides and learn more about urban cycling in India. Exploring these can help anyone interested in riding for fitness, friendship, or adventure to start on the right path, echoing the spirit of these two trailblazing women.