Manas Samantaray

Meet the Bhubaneswar Cycling and Adventure Club (BCAC), a vibrant community bound by a love for running, cycling, swimming, and adventure. Their impressive cycling expeditions include conquering the Manali-Leh-Khardungla route in the Himalayas three times, cycling from Bhubaneswar to Bhutan, and embarking on a 2002 km journey from Hanoi (Vietnam) to Phnom Penh (Cambodia). Their explorations also extend to cultural and historical sites around Bhubaneswar, conducted every Sunday and holiday for 50-100 KM.

BCAC takes pride in organizing marathons, including the unique Puri Beach Marathon, where participants run on the sandy shores. Some members have even achieved the remarkable feat of completing IRONMAN competitions. The club actively promotes long-distance cycling, with 50 members earning the title of Super Randonneurs by completing 200, 300, 400, and 600 km cycling. Notably, they've conducted challenging BRMs, including a 1000 km BRM in 75 hours and a 1200 km LRM in 90 hours.

In addition to their regular cycling pursuits, BCAC hosts the Golden Triangle Cycling Championship annually and organizes a memorable night cycling event from Bhubaneswar to Puri to Konark and back, covering 160 KM. They indulge in deep-sea swimming at Puri and conduct coastal treks from Puri to Chilika new sea mouth during winters.

Manas Samantaray, as the lead rider for GRC-2024, stands as a Super Randonneur and TMM (Full Marathon) Finisher. Beyond his impressive athletic achievements, Manas is recognized as a leader and a fitness enthusiast, exemplifying a harmonious balance between cycling, running, and social engagement alongside his professional endeavors. The BCAC extends a warm invitation to like-minded individuals to join their green initiative and be part of this dynamic and adventurous community.