Starting Point
YMCA ALUVA
This is an AIR approved Brevets de Randonneurs Mondiaux (BRM) sanctioned by ACP.
ACP rules for BRMs Worldwide are to be followed strictly.
Please ensure that you have read and understood the rules
ACP Rules
Additional Rules are applicable in India - Please ensure that you have read and understood them
COCHIN BIKERS CLUBS LRM 1200 Exotic Kerala 2023 is a demanding and challenging long-distance bicycle ride, particularly with its 1208 km distance to be covered within 90 hours gaining 9778 meters of elevation .
Please Note : Different Mapping apps show distances and elevations with sight variations ( about half a percent or two . In 1200 km this can be up to 12 km )
1208 km in map my ride
1225 km with ride with gps on the same gpx file .
You can download the gpx file from download options in this two links .
https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/5652914827/
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43892959
and upload to your GPS device to test the file.
Please study the route map and elevations between CPs. Plan your ride accordingly,
The diverse landscapes, from hills to forests, tea gardens to dam catchment areas, and fast highways to rolling terrains, make for an exciting and visually stunning journey. The ultimate destination, the Sangam at Kanya Kumari, where three mighty oceans meet, adds a special significance to this already challenging and awe-inspiring ride. It is a ride that is sure to be both physically and mentally demanding, but also one that promises to be a truly memorable and once-in-a-lifetime experience for any cyclist.
The event flow for Exotic Kerala 2023 is as follows:
Kit collection and briefing on the same day .
Event Start Location
YMCA ALUVA . ( Aluva Perumbavoor road)
( Start, Mid point wash and change and Finish is the same location with enough car parking space. Riders can choose to book Budget friendly rooms in this location. However there will be dormitory arrangments on day 3 (13 august for riders for their drop bag access and washroom use at 600 Km Mark)
August 11 2023
• 10:00 AM onwards: Arrival of riders and start of BIB distribution
• 12:00 PM: Bike check and drop bag collection
• There are plenty of eating options nearby.
• 2:30 PM: Event briefing ( YMCA ALUVA )
• 3:30 PM: Riders assemble for flag off
• 4:00 PM: Flag off
Enroute arrangements for Exotic Kerala include the following:
• Three drop bag facilities at KM 365 in Nilambur . YMCA ALUVA at 606 km and KM 910 in Kanyakumari will be available for riders to use.
• Participants are allowed to keep one bag at the start venue, which will also serve as the mid-point checkpoint (CP) at the 606 KM mark.
• Drop bags need to be small, with a maximum weight of 4 kg each and clearly tagged with the drop bag location, rider name, AIR number, mobile number, and emergency number.
• Glass bottles are not permitted in the drop bags, and riders are encouraged to keep their clothes in a plastic-sealed bag if they are soiled or wet.
Showers, food, and hydration will be available for riders at the drop bag control points along the route of Exotic Kerala. While mobile network coverage is mostly reliable, it can be spotty in some areas, such as the Ghat section and forest patches of Wynad, so riders should be prepared for potential connectivity issues.
Time management is crucial on the second day of the Exotic Kerala route, as riders will face some tough climbs between KM 232 and KM 360. To make the most of this challenging day, it is recommended that riders plan their climb in the early hours of the day to reach the hill top for a beautiful sunrise. Refreshments and washrooms are available just before the Ghat climb at Adivaram (218 KM), allowing riders to properly fuel and rest before the ascent.
Riders should not underestimate the terrain after reaching Lakkidi, as the stretch to Nadugani is both challenging and scenic. It is important for riders to approach this section with caution, pace themselves appropriately, and be mindful of the challenging terrain to ensure they are able to safely complete the journey.
The Refreshment spot after your clims of the Ghats is at India Gate restaurant. Riders from wynad Bikers Club will be hosting you at this point. This is a compulsory stop for all riders.
The first interstate border crossing is at Cherambadi, where riders enter Tamil Nadu state. To avoid heavy fines at the checkpoint, it is important for riders to be aware that disposable plastic bottles are not permitted and to carry reusable water bottles instead. This section of the route also features a stretch of forest,. It is important for riders to approach this section with caution and be prepared for a change in terrain and environment.
The stretch from Nadugani to Nilambur is a thrilling downhill that can be both exhilarating and treacherous. There are some parts of the road that may be broken or challenging to navigate on a bicycle, and riders may need to carry their bikes and walk at times. The weather can also be unpredictable in this area, with rain being a possibility at any time, and the fallen leaves of wild trees can add to the hazards of the road.
the next checkpoint at the 318 km mark is Hotel Al Maraj in Munda is a few kilometers after Nilambur town. Drop bag and washroom facilities are available there for use.
the next checkpoint is in Life Cycle Bicycle Store Palakkad .One Washroom facilities and refreshments are available.
the stretch from Palakkad to ALuva is a well-ridden route, but riders may face headwinds or crosswinds. At 554 km mark at the YMCA ALUVA ( the start point )You can access your second drop bag, as well as wash and change amenities, will be available there. ( if you plan your timing well we have dormitory beds arranged for your powernap)
Note -that you have completed 50% of the ride and should take a moment to rest, meditate, and visualize a smooth completion of the remaining 600 km. This mental preparation can help boost confidence and motivation.
hot weather, heavy traffic, road construction, dust, and unpredictable road widths are the challenges you face in the next 600 km of the bicycle ride.
Using the maximum daylight to reach Kottarakkara before sunset and planning to reach Kanayakumari before sunrise are good strategies for a successful finish .
Please note : we are hoping to get arrangements at Vivekanda Kendra or YMCA Kanyakumari for our 910 km CP. If not we will find a lodge or hotel for the same.
Kanyakumari Vivekanda Kendra is at 910 Km Mark of the ride . Your third and last drop bag can be accessed here . shared washroom facilities and shared bed dormitories ,IF your schedule permits, it is also recommended to take a short ride to the beach to watch the sunrise, as it can be a beautiful and inspiring experience. it is important to always follow the guidelines and rules of the retreat center.
Preparing for the final 300 km of your bicycle ride,
After much thought we have decided to use MC road for your return ride to ALuva.
There Coastal Highway through kollam and aleppey these days were avoided due to the Road works . Preparing a 1200 km bicycle ride route, including planned rest stops, avoiding forest paths at night, and identifying convenient room spaces at regular intervals, can indeed be a challenging task for organisors.
Your return ride to ALuva is the same route you took from ALuva.
Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Kottarakkara, Kottayam, Moovatupuzha, Perumbavoor finishing at ALuva.
Taking utmost care while cycling and following safety guidelines, such as wearing appropriate protective gear, staying visible, and being aware of traffic, is crucial. Remember, "Legends are not born in a day, it sprouts out of fire". So be persistent, focused, and dedicated, and you will reach your destination safely and successfully.
Challenges
The first day of your bicycle ride on Nh 17 till Calicut is likely to be challenging due to narrow roads and heavy traffic from 20 km to 170 km. On the second day, the climb to Wynad via Thamarassery Ghat road will include a 12 km stretch in the dark, which requires extra caution and attention. Additionally, there are broken patches of roads in the Cherambadi Nadugani section making it important to be mindful of road conditions. The stretch between Nadugani and Nilambur is characterized by lonely roads, a forest patch with limited water availability, and a steep descent, which can also present challenges. To tackle these challenges, it is advisable to be prepared with adequate supplies, follow safety guidelines, and be aware of the changing road conditions and traffic along the route.
The saying "Legends are born in fire" refers to the idea that legends are made through overcoming challenges and adversity. It implies that individuals who endure difficult circumstances and come out stronger on the other side are deserving of recognition and admiration. This phrase suggests that greatness is not simply given, but earned through perseverance and determination. In essence, legends are forged through the "fire" of hardship and tribulation, and their strength and resilience are what make them truly legendary.
LEGENDS ARE BORN IN FIRE..
LRM 1200 EXOTIC KERALA August 11 to August 15 2023
START and FINISH YMCA ALUVA
Proudly Organised by COCHIN BIKERS CLUB
Riders are advised to use sunscreen to protect themselves from sunburn. Arm sleeves for protection from the sun and stay Hydrated through our the ride..
High Visibility Apparel, Reflective vests, Powerful front and rear lights, Helmet and Safety Gloves are Mandatory Requirements.
YMCA Aluva had good rooms . Please book them directly.
Car Parking Available at the Start Venue.
There are a few good hotels of 2 star and 3 star categories in ALuva town.
.
For Further enquiries pls call 98951 49979 ( Shagzil Khan)
# | Subscriber Name | Rider Number | Fee | Medal | Result | Club | Seq No |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Binu CT | 23873 | Yes | Yes |
89h 18m
|
Bangalore Randonneurs | 1 |
2 | Karthik Dev | 16874 | No | No |
LF
|
Independent India | 2 |
3 | Anantha Krishnan | 18807 | Yes | Yes |
73h 33m
|
Independent India | 3 |
4 | Nithin Santhakumar P | 15781 | Yes | Yes |
89h 37m
|
Independent India | 4 |
5 | Eldhose Jose | 22186 | Yes | Yes |
89h 40m
|
Cochin Bikers Club | 5 |
6 | Saju John | 17326 | Yes | No |
89h 18m
|
Trivandrum Bikers Club | 6 |
7 | Eldhose Babu | 23806 | No | No |
DNF
|
Independent India | 7 |
8 | Safar Sathar | 22500 | No | No |
LF
|
Independent India | 8 |
9 | Jison Stephen | 22218 | Yes | No |
89h 18m
|
Cochin Bikers Club | 9 |
10 | Sinaj Ps | 4288 | Yes | No |
88h 55m
|
Cochin Bikers Club | 10 |
11 | Saju Poulose | 15784 | Yes | Yes |
89h 37m
|
Cochin Bikers Club | 11 |
YTC=Yet to Confirm, DNS=Did Not Start, DNF=Did Not Finish, LF=Late Finish
Event Fee: ₹4499
Payments GPay to 9895149979
UPI id shagzilkhan@okicici
Please sent payment screen shot with Name , AIR number
No Whatsapp Calls please. ( whatsapp Text only ( no audio message) 9895149979)