During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide are encouraged to strengthen their faith by deepening their connection with God through acts of worship, self-reflection, and kindness towards others. This sacred period serves as a time for individuals to purify their hearts, bolster their spirituality, and foster empathy and compassion for those in need. In line with the spirit of Ramadan, numerous organisations and community groups, such as the H&K Cycle Club, embrace the values of charity and service, using their platform to make a positive impact on society.
Over the past decade, H&K Cycle Club has experienced remarkable growth from its modest origins. Initially founded by a group of dedicated individuals passionate about community health, fitness, and charitable causes, the club has thrived under their leadership. What began with just 10 enthusiasts has now blossomed into a community of over 100 devoted cyclists. The cycling club from East London has recently went to the third expedition of Hijra ride, a challenging 550-kilometre journey ride from Mecca to Medina to raise vital funds and awareness for children suffering from Congenital Heart Defects in Africa. In an exclusive interview, Head of H&K Cycle Club, Shamsul Abdin spoke about the Hijra ride and club journey.
Hijra Ride: A journey of spirituality and challenges
Speaking about Hijra ride and collaboration with Muntada Aid, Shamsul said, “Since the inaugural Hijra Ride in 2022, H&K Cycle Club has forged a meaningful partnership with Muntada Aid, a charity organisation with whom we share a longstanding and harmonious relationship. Recognising the intricate logistics and administrative requirements of organising such a significant cycling event, we found that collaborating with Muntada Aid brought invaluable support and expertise to the table. While our club focuses on the cycling aspect and event management, Muntada Aid ensures seamless coordination of logistics, including hotel arrangements, support vehicles, and on-ground assistance during the ride in Saudi Arabia. This year, the success of our Hijra Ride has broken records, with over £184,000 raised, surpassing even our own club's previous fundraising milestones.”
Talking about the spirituality and challenges of the ride, he said, “Absolutely, the essence of the Hijra Ride encapsulates a journey like no other. As someone intimately involved in its organisation, I've just returned from overseeing its execution for the third consecutive year. Despite the familiarity that comes with repetition, the experience remains as profound and impactful as it did during my inaugural participation three years ago. The uniqueness of the Hijra Ride lies in its fusion of physical exertion with spiritual fulfilment.”
“Having spent a decade traversing Europe, cycling through 48 cities across 18 countries from London to Istanbul, our club sought a new challenge—one that would transcend the realm of sport and delve into the realm of spirituality. The Hijra Ride achieves just that by intertwining the physicality of cycling with the spiritual journey of pilgrimage. Upon arriving in Mecca, participants perform the sacred rites of Umrah, grounding themselves in a profound spiritual experience. Subsequently, mounting their bicycles, they embark on a transformative 550-kilometre journey from Mecca to Medina—a route echoing the historic migration of Prophet Muhammad over 1400 years ago,” he added.
Speaking about the significance of this journey, he said, “It symbolises a pivotal moment in Islamic history, where the Prophet, faced with persecution in his homeland of Mecca, sought refuge in Medina. By retracing his footsteps on two wheels, participants not only endure the physical challenges of cycling but also forge a deep spiritual connection with the Prophet's journey. The arduous conditions—battling heat, headwinds, and exhaustion—mirror the trials faced by the Prophet and his companions during their migration. For example, a remarkable participant in our recent Hijra Ride, a 62-year-old who tackled a gruelling 550-kilometre journey through challenging conditions. His achievement, against the odds and in the face of doubt, epitomises the transformative power of our events.”
A decade of community impact and philanthropy
Speaking about the well-being of the community, he said, “Reflecting on our journey as a club over the past decade fills me with immense humility and pride. What began as a vision shared by a few brothers has blossomed into a vibrant and impactful organisation, serving our community and beyond. As the current head of the club, alongside dedicated members like Soifur Rahman and Mashrur Miah, we've witnessed the remarkable evolution of H&K Cycle Club.
“In 10 years, through our collective efforts and unwavering dedication, we have raised an astounding £1.6 million for various charitable causes—a testament to the power of community and grassroots initiatives. The impact of our club on the community has been nothing short of profound. Over the past decade, we've witnessed a significant shift in the perception of cycling within the Asian community. When we first embarked on this journey, cycling was largely viewed as a pastime reserved for white, middle-class men. However, through our efforts and the visibility we've achieved, we've shattered that stereotype,” he added.
Speaking about breaking the barriers, he said, “Our active presence on social media platforms like Instagram, where we recently surpassed 1000 followers, has played a pivotal role in showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of our club. By sharing our experiences and highlighting the participation of individuals from diverse age groups and backgrounds, we've inspired countless others to take up cycling. Seeing people who look like them engaging in the sport has served as a powerful source of inspiration for many, breaking down barriers and dispelling misconceptions about who can participate in cycling.”
