Cycling for the Future: Dutch Adventurers Complete 20,000km Journey to Ho Chi Minh City

On 16 February, the Consulate General of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with local organizations, hosted the "Cycling for the Future" event to celebrate the remarkable 20,000-kilometer journey of Dutch cyclists Rick Keijzer and Sven Broekhuizen. The event brought together over 400 participants to promote eco-friendly transportation and strengthen the connection between Vietnam and the Netherlands.

In a remarkable display of endurance and commitment to sustainability, Dutch cyclists Rick Keijzer (21 years old) and Sven Broekhuizen (25 years old) recently concluded an 11-month, 20,000-kilometer journey from the Netherlands to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Their expedition spanned 24 countries over 343 days, aiming to raise funds for Coop Africa, a charity providing bicycles to communities in Kenya and Uganda.

To celebrate their achievement and promote eco-friendly transportation, the Consulate General of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with local organizations, hosted the "Cycling for the Future" event on February 16. Over 400 participants, including city officials, diplomats, environmental groups, and cycling enthusiasts, gathered for the ride. The route commenced at the Saigon Opera House, traversing iconic landmarks such as Ben Thanh Market, the Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Ba Son Bridge, before concluding in Thu Duc City.

Participants had an exciting experience cycling alongside the two young men who traveled tens of thousands of kilometers from the Netherlands to Vietnam.

Consul General Daniel Coenraad Stork expressed pride in the duo's accomplishment, highlighting the importance of cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation. He emphasized that bicycles offer a green solution for environmental protection, reduce emissions, and serve as an ideal means of last-mile transport, complementing Ho Chi Minh City's newly operational metro system.

Rick and Sven's journey not only tested their physical limits but also fostered cultural exchanges and global connections. Reflecting on their experience in Vietnam, Rick shared, "My impression of Vietnam is that it is a very beautiful country, the people are hospitable and beautiful. The first night we cycled to Vietnam, we were invited to a family for dinner and they even invited us to stay. We were very grateful."

At the conclusion of their journey, Rick and Sven were honored by the Vietnam - Netherlands Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City with a commemorative medal and a handcrafted bicycle model. This special gift served as a token of appreciation for their resilience and dedication, recognizing their adventurous spirit and deep connection to Vietnam.

The "Cycling for the Future" event underscored the growing movement towards sustainable urban development in Ho Chi Minh City. By embracing cycling, the city aims to improve air quality, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents. The event also served as a platform to strengthen the enduring friendship between Vietnam and the Netherlands, showcasing a shared vision for a greener future.

As Ho Chi Minh City continues to evolve, initiatives like these highlight the pivotal role of community engagement and international collaboration in driving positive environmental change.