NEW DELHI, June 30 — A landmark achievement for Indian endurance cycling, Kanwar Gill has become the first cyclist from North India to earn the International Super Randonneur (SR) title—only the third Indian ever to do so.
The accolade comes as Gill successfully completed his 40th SR series, a feat that places him in rare company among the nation’s elite long-distance riders.
“It’s not just about distance,” Gill said in a statement. “It’s about resilience, discipline, and showing others that impossible is only a word.”
The International SR title is awarded to cyclists who complete a designated series of long-distance brevet rides—ranging from 200 km to 600 km—in multiple countries, making it one of the sport’s most grueling and globally recognized distinctions.
Gill’s endurance résumé spans over a decade and includes groundbreaking efforts across India and beyond:
- He has twice completed the 1,200 km LRM and 1,000 km LRM rides.
- In 2019, he participated in the legendary Paris–Brest–Paris (PBP) and returned in 2023 to finish the iconic 1,200 km French randonnée.
- He pioneered India’s first Delhi–Mumbai (G2G) and Delhi–Kathmandu (C2C) tandem cycling journeys.
- In a notable high-altitude challenge, he rode Manali to Leh in just three days.
- He has completed 175+ brevets and over 30 marathons, becoming a symbol of stamina and mental grit.
Gill is especially celebrated for revolutionizing tandem cycling in India. He holds the national record for being a 5-time SR on tandem, including completing a 5-day SR series on tandem, another first for the country.
He is also the first Punjabi to receive both the R-5000 and R-10000 medals, awarded by Audax India for exceptional endurance milestones.
“Kanwar Gill has set a new benchmark for what’s possible in Indian endurance cycling,” said a representative from Audax India. “His passion for tandem rides has inspired many to challenge their own limits.”
With his International SR title now secured, Gill is preparing for another iconic expedition: a solo ride from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, spanning the length of the country.
“India has given me the roads, the wind, and the will,” Gill said. “Now it’s time to give back by showing what’s achievable when you keep moving forward.”
