In a heartwarming event, approximately 20 children, some with special needs, added an extra layer of significance to the Gran Fondo cycling event held in Bintan’s Lagoi Bay, part of the Bintan Resorts in the Riau Islands on Sunday (22/10/2023).

The charity ride in Bintan was organized in conjunction with Gran Fondo, and the collaboration between Ageless Bicyclist Singapore and Bintan Resorts highlighted the inclusivity and support for children, including those with special needs.

Abdul Wahab, the Chief Operating Officer of PT Bintan Resort Cakrawala (BRC), explained that this initiative is part of Ageless Bicyclist’s non-profit activities that use cycling as a medium to raise funds for children and young people with special needs, primarily to support their education and training.

This charity ride encapsulates a diverse age range, emphasizing that people of all ages, from children to the elderly, can engage in cycling for noble causes. The event showcases the potential for sports to foster social inclusion, offering equal opportunities for all individuals to participate.

The organizers have set an inspiring example by creating an opportunity for children with special needs to experience the joy of cycling while providing the necessary educational and training support.

Abdul Wahab mentioned that this was the second time such an event was held in Bintan Resorts, underscoring the need for activities that promote inclusivity and inspire everyone to engage in sports as a way to assist one another.

The charity ride kicked off with a formal start by Hariyanto, the Deputy for Development and Infrastructure at the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf). The event was joined by Kapolres Bintan AKBP Riky Iswoyo, Elvin Ting, Founder of Orange Room, a partner in organizing Gran Fondo, and Malcolm Chen, Founder of Ageless Bicyclist.

The charity ride in Bintan, held alongside the Gran Fondo, showcases the heartwarming spirit of inclusivity and community support. International visitors should take note of such meaningful initiatives when exploring the Bintan Resorts.

Approximately 20 children, including those with special needs, participated in a charity ride in Bintan, coinciding with the Gran Fondo event. Organized in collaboration with Ageless Bicyclist Singapore and Bintan Resorts, the charity ride aims to support the education and training of children and young people with autism. It highlights the power of sports to promote social inclusion and equal opportunities for all.

Source : Batam Pos, Batam Today (2023)