| James Kon |
HUNDREDS of cyclists joined His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and members of the royal family yesterday morning for the Royal Birthday Cycling Recreation 2017 (RBK 2017) in Bandar Seri Begawan.
Several senior citizens from the Chinese community also took part in the 11.5-kilometre cycling route around the heart of the capital, and among them were 72-year-old Soon Seng Lee and his friend, Song Kin Fha, 71.
Soon, who is from Tutong, said, “We drove down here early, in the heavy downpour, to join today’s special cycling event with His Majesty.
“It’s not every day that we can cycle together with His Majesty and the royal family, so this is a really special occasion.”
Both men are members of the Tutong Voluntary Cycling Expedition (BEST).
When asked how they manage to keep fit in old age, Soon said, “We often do some brisk walking during our free time, to stay healthy.”
Meanwhile, Rizal bin Mohd Salleh, was one of the 71 cyclists along the 71-km route led by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier bin Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz.
Rizal, who took a selfie with His Majesty at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday, said, “This was a chance to be part of His Majesty’s birthday celebrations, and it’s always a pleasure to see His Majesty in person.”
The 44-year-old cycling enthusiast even had two of his bicycles autographed by His Majesty at previous recreational events, which he keeps safely at home.
Concluding the interview, Rizal said, “I wish all the best and good health to His Majesty.”
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