Cologne's city cycling breaks record: 10,000 cyclists celebrate big award!

Cologne's city cycling breaks record: 10,000 cyclists celebrate big award!

On Tuesday evening the time had come: the best teams from this year's “City Cycling” were honored in Cologne City Hall. Around 10,000 participants took part and together covered the incredible distance of 2,221,615 kilometers. This is a new record that once again demonstrates the enthusiasm for cycling in the city. Mayor Andreas Wolter (Greens) was proud to honor the winning groups, including the “Healthy University Hospital of Cologne” and the Cologne Police for their outstanding mileage.

This year, the award for “Cologne's Most Bicycle-Active School” went to the Elisabeth von Thüringen High School, which cycled an incredible 36,690 kilometers and thus made an important contribution to sustainable mobility. For the school, this success represents a continuation of its pioneering role: it was named the most bicycle-active school in Cologne for the third time in a row. A total of 71 schools took part in the competition and showed that cycling is not only healthy, but also a powerful symbol of climate protection.

A positive contribution to health and the environment

With every kilometer cycled, the participants not only improved their fitness, but also made a significant contribution to cleaner air. It is estimated that by not using a car, around 5.5 tons of CO₂ were saved, an enormous benefit for the environment. The WHO highlights that cycling and walking are crucial to combat obesity and physical inactivity, which are responsible for one million deaths every year. Active mobility, as practiced in city cycling, can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and even some types of cancer. WHO reports that...

City cycling as a community project

The active participation of the school community at the Elisabeth von Thüringen Gymnasium was particularly pleasing. 195 alumni, parents, colleagues and students contributed to the overall result. Among the top drivers were a father, a colleague and a student who each drove over 1,000 kilometers. This community shows how thoughtful programs in schools can motivate people to make healthier lifestyle choices while protecting the environment.

The event was accompanied by a colorful supporting program in which magician Schmitz Baakes created a great atmosphere. There was special recognition for the three cyclists named “city cycling stars” – Joelina Bognani, Ralf Trippel and Manuel Wegner: together they cycled 1,705 kilometers and each received a practical saddle bag as a prize.

With the positive response to this year's “city cycling” the anticipation for the next round next year is growing. At a time when sustainable mobility is becoming increasingly important, the Cologne competition proves that shared commitment, fun and health can go hand in hand. Rundschau reports that ... and Evt-Köln shows that …