As the final stage of the Tour de Hongrie approaches Pécs, the city was preparing for the event with increasing excitement. To add to this, the city organised a cycling day on 11 May, focusing on promoting cycling. Cycling enthusiasts were also welcomed by the UP team with special interactive activities at Széchenyi Square.
The programme started with a bike brunch on Kossuth Square, where the participants of the 1st UP-Fittbike Family Bike Tour also rolled in. The aim of the traditional family bike tour was not only to share sport, but also to bond as a family and to get to know the city's cycle paths. On the 16-kilometre route, the participants cycled happily and enthusiastically through the city of Pécs, enjoying the beautiful weather and the communal experience.
The performance of the UP ETK Jazz Dance group and the UP Brass Band was definitely one of the most memorable moments of the day, and it lifted the mood of the event. The dance troupe performed an impressive choreography that showcased the beauty and diversity of the art of dance. The dancers enchanted the audience with their confident movements and their verve, and they applauded enthusiastically at the end of the show. The UP Brass Band created a real atmosphere in the square. The band's energetic performance got young and old alike dancing.
One of the most spectacular events of the day was the Cycling Roll, organised in cooperation with the UP Sports Office, where cycling enthusiasts and participants of the bike tour could enjoy cycling together while marching through the main square of the city. The march was also attended by students from the Primary and Secondary Schools of UP. „It was a lot of fun marching with my friends. I have always loved cycling. I've been pedalling since I was 4 years old. I'm really happy to have had such an unforgettable experience," said a student from the Deák Ferenc Primary School of the UP Primary and Secondary School.
The tent of the University of Pécs was one of the liveliest and most attractive points of the event, where a number of exciting activities awaited the visitors. The stand gave visitors an insight into the colourful and diverse world of university life. Exciting prize draws were also on offer. One of the most popular activities was bingo, where participants had the chance to search for numbers and hope for their luck. The UP glitter tattoo was also very popular with the little ones. During the games, winners took home special UP gifts.
„I was there last year, and UP had the most atmospheric and well-designed stand, and it is the same now," said Endre Szundi, a student at the Babits Mihály Babits Mihály Secondary School of the UP Practising Primary School and Secondary School,
He continued. „This could be particularly important in terms of cycling to work in the morning, to school or to other activities, which seems like a very useful and positive idea."
The UP team paid special attention to the promotion of cycling with an indoor cycling competition. This hands-on experience was a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy the experience of cycling while taking part in fun races.
„We are a cycling-friendly university.
We pay special attention to motivating our staff and students alike to live a sporty and healthy life," said Dr. Réka Hegedüs, Head of the Domestic Schooling Marketing Office of the PTE Relations Directorate, one of the main organizers of the event, adding that sustainability and environmental awareness are of utmost importance to the university.
The Pécs Cycling Day clearly demonstrated that cycling is not only a healthy and environmentally friendly activity, but also a tool that connects people and enriches urban life.
Useful websites on cycling and environmental awareness:
