18 September 2024 | 20:53

Almaty pensioners' 13,000 kilometer cycling trip to Turkey goes viral

Image created from video frames

Tengrinews.kz - Pensioners from Almaty have become online stars thanks to their fasinating cycling adventure.

A resident of Shymkent named Abdi posted a video on TikTok featuring 66-year-old traveler Volodya Babich. The clip, which has garnered over 600,000 views, showcases Volodya sharing his incredible journey. Together with his wife, they cycled a staggering 13,000 kilometers from Almaty through Turkey and back.

"We traveled from Almaty to Urumqi, then to Turkey. In Turkey, we reached Istanbul, then Marmaris, and then Antalya, before crossing through Turkey and back home via Batumi, Georgia," the traveler explains.

@abdiutenbekov
🚴Велотурист 13 тыс.км🌏 проехал на велосипеде Бабич Володя ✅
♬ оригинальный звук - Абди

In the video, Volodya modestly recounts that last year, he and his wife also made a cycling trip to Turkey, covering 10,000 kilometers at that time. According to Volodya, their bikes are simple yet reliable: "Each bike has 10 speeds, good puncture-resistant tires, and sturdy frames."

Netizens were captivated by Volodya and his wife's story, praising their bravery and spirit. Many commentators noted that the traveler embraces life fully and enjoys it despite his age. One commenter even mentioned meeting the couple on the road and was shocked to learn that the traveler's wife is 68 years old.

"He's carefree about his appearance. He lives life to the fullest, and he's not young anymore. Wow, impressive!" "My husband has been planning a car trip for three years but hasn’t gotten around to it, while they’re cycling! I'll show this to my husband," "They are amazing; the man took his wife to Turkey," "These are true bicycle travelers, not promoting themselves at all. Respect to this family," "They are happy," "Strong, fearless people. Great job!" "Wow! This has been my dream for 10 years. I can't make up my mind to go alone," "My respect to such old age," "What a great couple, they found each other and share common interests," "Incredible! I admire them! I can hardly imagine this route, and they did it on bikes, loaded! Uphills and downhills. May God bless them with health!" "Amazing people," "Last year we met them in Jimpite; they were also cycling from Turkey and we offered them drinks and food, wishing them a safe journey," "How interesting these people live," "Bravo, what emotions. Not everyone gets to experience this. Wishing you health," wrote the commenters.

Bicycle pensioners Almaty elderly Sport cycling