Gerald Topfer, 69 years

Gerald was the oldest participant in the last Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge, but as a vibrant and enthusiastic person who embraces life with a positive energy, age is just a number. Gerald says: “Cycling started as a leisurely hobby with one of my good friends, but I became chuffed with the slow and steady improvements I was making. Then there is the thrill of competition even with oneself, the personal challenge, the physical fitness, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a race. It can also be a way to connect with a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion.”

On being in a slightly older age bracket, Gerald has this advice: “Age should never be a barrier to enjoying Cycling or participating in races. Start gradually, listen to your body, and consult with a healthcare professional if needed. Focus on enjoyment and overall health rather than intense competition. Cycling can be a lifelong activity, providing not just physical benefits but also mental and social ones. Embrace the journey, set realistic goals, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment with each ride.”

Next year’s race is Gerald’s focus for now. He says: “Cycling will be part of my life for as long as possible. I look forward to giving it my all again in February at the next race. I’d encourage anyone who hasn’t yet started to get involved and - for those getting ready for the next buildup ride on the 3rd of December - see you there!”

Chamodya Dilmika Silva, 16 years

Chamodya was the youngest participant in this year’s race and was inspired to take up cycling through his dad’s connection to the sport. Chamodya says: “I have been riding a mountain bike since I was a kid and started riding road bikes when I was 14 years old.”

“I practice four times a week. On Tuesdays, I do 47km at Al Qudra cycling track and on Thursdays, I train on an indoor bike and cycle for 60 minutes, which is equivalent to a 120-minute outdoor ride. On Saturdays, I ride with the Cycle Safe Dubai group, and we do about 86km to 100km at Al Qudra. On Sundays, I join the Legendary Coffee Ride, which has been around for the last two decades in the Dubai cycling community.”

On what inspires him to keep going and participating in next year's Cycle Challenge in February, Chamodya says: “My father works for Revolution Cycles in Motor City, and he holds a special place in his heart for this beautiful sport. He has always been my biggest supporter, and I am very grateful for that. Mr. Stewart Howison, the founder of Revolution Cycles, also guided me into the sport and taught me important lessons on riding in smaller and bigger groups. He was the one who encouraged me to participate in the Spinneys race.”

Elmira Pelovello, Operations Manager, Spinneys

Elmira was one of the first women to join Spinneys cycling team and is proud to represent the company at events in the UAE and around the world.

Speaking of her dedication to the sport, Elmira says: “Some days I get up at 3 am to be at the cycling track at 4 am. I live quite far away from Al Qudra, and it takes me 45 minutes to get there. As a team, we cycle at least 3-4 times a week - around 45-60km on weekdays and around 80-100km on weekends.”

“I have been on the Spinney’s cycling team for six years. In fact, I was one of the first women to join, and now there are 25 of us! I wasn’t sporty before. I tried to go to the gym but I wasn’t really motivated at all. In cycling, it’s completely different. There are 140+ cyclists in our WhatsApp group and we post pictures and details of our rides every day to encourage each other.”

“We’ve also travelled together on cycling trips to the UK, Italy, Greece and so many other different places creating great memories and having so much fun. From our Customer Service Advisors in the store to our managers and leaders, we are all friends and equals on the track. Everybody shares the load of work, everybody supports each other, and everybody gets the opportunity to be at the front and lead.”