Three retired Sri Lankan military officers have finished a 1,400-kilometre cycling expedition from Colombo to Chennai and back, participating in a bilateral friendship initiative that brought together cyclists from both nations.
Three retired senior officers from the Sri Lankan Army have successfully completed an extensive cycling journey spanning approximately 1,400 kilometres between Colombo and Chennai as part of a people-to-people engagement initiative between Sri Lanka and India. Major General Sumith Balasooriya, Major General Sumith Premalal, and Colonel Pradeep Perera undertook the demanding cross-border expedition to promote bilateral friendship and cultural exchange.
The veterans participated in a joint cycling event in Chennai alongside approximately 30 Indian cyclists. The "Bond and Ride – India & Sri Lanka" friendship event saw participants traverse key locations in the city, including routes beginning at Besant Nagar Beach and proceeding through Santhome, Marina Beach, and Anna Salai. Cyclists carried both Sri Lankan and Indian flags throughout the 20-kilometre ride in the coastal city.
The initiative was organised by Team Bison following a proposal from Sri Lanka's Deputy High Commissioner in Chennai. Beyond promoting bilateral relations, the cycling campaign incorporated broader social messaging, with participants advocating for health consciousness through cycling and raising awareness against substance abuse. The event reflects ongoing efforts by both nations to strengthen people-to-people connections through organised community activities.