MLA urges youth to engage more in endurance sports

Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna on Sunday encouraged the youth from Udupi district to take advantage of the newly formed Udupi District Amateur Cycling Association to engage more in endurance sports.

He was speaking after formally inaugurating the association at the Mahatma Gandhi District stadium in Ajjarkad in Udupi. The MLA praised the association’s efforts in promoting cycling both as a competitive sport and a healthy lifestyle choice.

The inauguration which marked a major milestone for the cycling community in the district, was followed by Cyclothon–2025 that saw the participation of over 100 cyclists. Deputy Commissioner T.K. Swaroopa and Sports and Youth Empowerment Assistant Director Roshan Shetty were present.

Association’s president K. Gururaj recalled the journey of the cycling community in Udupi, which began informally as the Udupi Cycling Club (UCC) in 2014 and steadily grew into a recognised district-level body in 2025.

Dr. Gururaj said Udupi cyclists have already made their mark in endurance events such as BRMs, the Deccan Cliffhanger, and other ultra races. UDACA’s formation now enables them to officially represent the district in State and national competitions.

Over 100 cyclists participated in Cyclothon 2025 after the formal inauguration of Udupi District Amateur Cycling Association in Udupi on Sunday.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Following the ceremony, Cyclothon–2025 was flagged off. Participants emphasised the need for more cycling infrastructure and regular training opportunities in the district.

UDACA announced that it will soon begin identifying and training young cyclists across the under-14, under-16, under-18, and under-23 categories to prepare them for higher-level competitions. The association also appealed to educational institutions, sports clubs and parents to encourage young talent to take up competitive cycling.