Two young Dutch cyclists, Rick Keijzer and Sven Broekhuizen, wrapped up their remarkable cycling expedition with the completion of nearly 20,000 kilometers from the Netherlands to Vietnam. Their extraordinary 343-day adventure took them through 24 countries and was celebrated on February 16 during the special event titled "Cycling for Tomorrow" held in Ho Chi Minh City.
The cyclists, aged 21 and 25 respectively, attracted widespread attention and admiration for their ambitious undertaking. The event, organized by the Consulate General of the Netherlands along with various local organizations, aimed to promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport and to raise funds for Coop Africa—a charity organization dedicated to providing bicycles to individuals in Kenya and Uganda to improve access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
The start of the Cycling for Tomorrow event saw nearly 400 participants congregate at the iconic City Theater, geared up for the challenge of cycling 15 kilometers through the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Their route included iconic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and Ben Thanh Market, culminating at the residence of the Consul General.
Rick Keijzer shared his enthusiasm for the adventure, stating, "We are passionate about cycling and love to explore the world. The trip from the Netherlands to Vietnam was fantastic! I find regular cycling to be totally doable in Ho Chi Minh City." His words highlight not only the joy of cycling but also the practicality of this eco-friendly mode of transportation within urban environments.
Dan Koenraad Stork, the Consul General of the Netherlands, expressed excitement about the event's potential to inspire the local community, saying, "Through this event, we hope to spread the message of 'cycling for the future' so people can use bicycles along with subways to reduce environmental pollution." His statement reflects the growing interest in sustainable practices and promoting healthier lifestyles through cycling.
The cyclists' inspirational story has added significance against the backdrop of increasing global interest in sustainable transport solutions. By crossing numerous terrains, from European cities to vast Central Asian plains and the busy streets of Southeast Asia, Keijzer and Broekhuizen not only raised awareness and funds for Coop Africa but also embraced the diverse cultures and landscapes encountered along their lengthy ride.
The impact of the Cycling for Tomorrow event was evident, with families and children engaging with the joy of cycling as they participated. One local resident, Nguyen Hoang Anh, voiced his hope, stating, "My family often rides bicycles on weekends to maintain our health. This activity will help kids love cycling even more and encourage the community to use public transport more." His thoughts underline the need for community initiatives to promote cycling as part of daily living.
The event also served as a vibrant celebration of cycling culture, with participants enjoying the camaraderie and shared experience, demonstrating cycling's potential to connect people across different backgrounds. Participants shared smiles and laughter as they rode together, fostering community bonds and raising awareness about the benefits of cycling—including improved air quality, reduced traffic congestion, and health benefits for the populace—all emphasized throughout the event.
Rick Keijzer and Sven Broekhuizen's cycling expedition from the Netherlands to Vietnam is more than just a personal achievement; it is part of the broader conversation on sustainable transport and healthier living choices. By advocating for the bike-friendly movement and engaging with local communities, they have paved the way for more people to explore their surroundings on two wheels.
This celebration of cycling reflects growing interest and investment within urban areas as cities, like Ho Chi Minh City, explore integrating cycling infrastructure with existing transport systems. The potential for bicycles to contribute to vibrant, sustainable urban environments cannot be overstated.
The Cycling for Tomorrow event not only marked the end of Keijzer and Broekhuizen's adventurous trip but also ignited conversations about the significant role bicycles can play in our increasingly urbanized world.