Charlie Duong
The Rift, Iceland
"If you want something you have never had, you must be willing to do something you have never done."
Amsterdam-based cyclist and Universal Colours ambassador Charlie shares his experiences of one of his toughest challenges yet.
The Rift is a 200 km (125 miles) off-road bike race through the dark lava fields in the highlands of Iceland. It traverses the continental rift between North America and Eurasia - a rift that grows one inch every year. The growth is evident with vast lava fields all around creating a surreal landscape.
I fell in love with cycling when I moved to Amsterdam 5 years ago. During the pandemic, it turned into a hobby for me. Cycling became a movement-based meditation, a way to clear my mind, focus on the present, and explore new places. As I pedalled more, I realised the cycling community was quite different from my background, with very few people who looked like me. The majority, at least in Amsterdam, seemed performance-based and one-dimensional. But the allure of cycling, the wind in my face, and the thrill of discovery spurred me on.
Iceland, with its unparalleled landscapes, held an irresistible appeal. The idea of the "The Rift," a gravel event amid Iceland's stunning backdrop, captured my imagination. Seeing images from past years convinced my best friend Joseph and me that we had to participate. The combination of rugged terrain, gravel paths, river crossings, snow, and glaciers promised an epic adventure unlike any other.
Riding for Friendship and Community
My close-knit community and friends are now scattered across the globe, making it challenging to meet often. The Rift presented a chance for my best friend Joseph, who lives in Singapore, and I to reunite at least once a year. Our inspiration? To ride for friendship, for the shared experience, and for the community that cycling creates. Like a moving meditation, cycling allows us to silence the noise, be present, and explore uncharted territories. As he and I often discuss, "If you want something you have never had, you must be willing to do something you have never done."
Our journey also aimed to challenge cycling conventions. The industry can sometimes feel exclusive, favouring a particular demographic. Our ride was a statement - a diverse pair from different corners of the world, breaking stereotypes and redefining the cycling narrative.
Two Friends, Two Continents
Joseph and I share a bond that spans a decade, a friendship that's more like brotherhood. Despite being continents apart, we vowed to connect annually. The preparation for this ride was no different. My busy schedule forced a strategic training plan - two high-intensity interval rides during the week, complemented by a long endurance ride on weekends. The cycling community in Amsterdam, along with helpful tips from mentors like Aaron Griffiths and Bas from Wheelrunner, played a pivotal role in preparing us mentally and physically.
Weathering the Elements
Iceland's capricious weather is akin to the Netherlands, fluctuating between summer warmth, rain, wind and clouds. Our gear had to be adaptable, allowing for quick adjustments to the ever-changing conditions. I opted for thermal shorts and tops from Universal Colours, offering flexibility to add or shed layers as needed. Key items like insulated gilets, knee warmers and merino socks proved invaluable, especially during arduous climbs and descents.
Conquering Challenges and Cherishing Moments
The ride was no cakewalk. The terrain was brutal, the climbs relentless. The initial 50km climb, with its washboard paths, head-sized boulders and sandy stretches tested our limits. The elevation was a stark contrast to Amsterdam's flatness, but our determination carried us through.
Reflecting on the journey, a few things became clear. Embrace uncertainty and relish the adventure, for no matter how prepared you are, unexpected hurdles will arise. We discovered that we are stronger than we believe. Riding 200km through Iceland's unforgiving terrain is achievable for individuals from all walks of life.
Diverse Stories of Grit and Triumph
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and gruelling stretches, we observed inspiring stories of triumph. A man riding to support his terminally ill wife, an elderly couple on a tandem bike, a couple from South Korea dominating the course and a South Asian man crossing the finish line with his parents waiting proudly - these narratives of resilience showcased the true spirit of The Rift.
The experience proved that with the right preparation, the human body is capable of extraordinary feats. As we crossed waterfalls, navigated glacial river crossings and gazed at icecaps that resembled paintings, the beauty of Iceland served as a reminder of nature's grandeur.
A Call for Diversity and Inclusion
One aspect that struck us was the lack of diversity in the race. While the spotlight often shines on elite athletes, the cycling community is a tapestry of varied stories. The heartwarming moments we witnessed underscored this. We believe events like The Rift should embrace all participants' journeys, highlighting the diverse faces and cultures that make up the cycling world.
The Rift challenged us physically and mentally, pushing us beyond our limits. It reinforced the power of friendship, the importance of community, and the thrill of exploration. Cycling, beyond a mere sport, transformed into a conduit for connection, a vessel for growth, and a lens through which to view the world's most incredible landscapes.
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Charlie Duong