Pic: Timmesh Kumar Sampalli, cyclist and project director at Haveri Jilla Nirmiti KendraHaveri: Timmesh Kumar Sampalli, project director at Haveri Jilla Nirmiti Kendra, is set to participate in a 1,540 km cycling race organised by Audax United Kingdom from Aug 3 to 8. Amongst 2,400 international participants, India has 186 representatives, with 48 from Karnataka. Timmesh stands as the lone participant from Haveri Cycle Club, facing a 128-hour completion deadline. Of the Karnataka contingent, 6 cyclists represent North Karnataka.Recognising the formidable task of covering 1,540 km within 128 hours, Timmesh Kumar detailed his extensive preparation spanning a year. His training regimen included progressive distances of 100, 200, 300, and 1,000 km, building towards the 1,500 km target. His training in Jammu & Kashmir’s climate, while different from England’s conditions, enhanced his readiness.Throughout his eight-year cycling journey, Timmesh Kumar balanced numerous cycling expeditions with his professional responsibilities. A civil engineer by qualification, he works as a project director at Jilla Nirmithi Kendra Haveri.His notable achievements include completing routes from Dharwad to Dhanushkodi (1,100 km), Hubballi to Mysuru and back (1,000 km), and Delhi to Kashmir’s Lal Chowk (840 km). In 2019, he participated in Guinness World Records representing Hubballi Bicycle Club. He now prepares for his overseas challenge.”Cycling is my hobby. I was peddling for years and participated in many expeditions, and completed them successfully. I have been balancing my hobby and profession for the last 8 years with the support of officers and family members. I am happy with peddling and I especially enjoy solo rides,” said Timmesh Kumar.He expressed confidence in completing the 1,540 km ride within the stipulated time in the UK competition.Arvind Mulimani from Haveri Cycle Club commended Timmesh Kumar’s dedication and cycling proficiency. “We wish him success in the Audax United Kingdom cycling competition, and we hope he will succeed,” Arvind stated, acknowledging Timmesh’s role as a cycling mentor in Haveri.
