Bright and early on 16 November 2024, the usually tranquil Civil Service Club (CSC) @ Changi came alive with energy as over 120 cycling enthusiasts gathered for the first-ever CSC Eastern Corridor Cycle. The event was a celebration of camaraderie, fitness and the sheer joy of exploring Singapore’s picturesque eastern landscapes on two wheels.

The 42km route took cyclists on a scenic adventure, including the newly opened 18km stretch connecting Pasir Ris Park to East Coast Park, before looping back to CSC @ Changi. Designed as a leisurely ride, the event encouraged participants to cycle at their own pace, focusing on the experience rather than competition.

Flagging off the event was Guest-of-Honour Mr Tan Hock Leong, Chairman, CSC Board of Games, who commended the participants’ dedication and hinted at exciting plans for future cycling events. “I’m always so impressed to see our cyclists waking up so early for their bike rides,” said Mr Tan. He revealed plans to expand the Public Service cycling community, with potential events like the Western Corridor Cycle and Round Island Cycle in the pipeline.

Blessed with clear skies and a cooling breeze, the ride offered perfect conditions for an enjoyable morning outdoors. Along the route, hydration stations provided sustenance and drinks to keep cyclists energised and hydrated as they pedalled through Singapore’s scenic east.

Cycling together: building bonds on two wheels

Dressed in matching royal blue jerseys, Mr Amir Bin Pardi and his colleagues eagerly awaited the flag-off. A long-time CSC member and a veteran of 30 years at the National Environment Agency (NEA), Mr Pardi is no stranger to leisure rides.
 
“Usually, we cover about 30km to 40km, sometimes even 100km!” he shared. Mr Pardi enjoys exploring Singapore’s parks and hunting for good food spots during his rides. “The vibe is much more fun when we cycle in a large group. We feel like a part of a big community,” he said, adding that he looks forward to more CSC cycling events.

Mr Amir Bin Pardi (2nd from left, with his colleagues) enjoys exploring Singapore on two wheels.

Mr Mohd Sairi (centre) cherishes the camaraderie he builds with his colleagues through cycling.

Meanwhile, Mr Mohd Sairi and his colleagues were spotted snapping photos with their Brompton folding bikes. “I’ve been cycling for quite some time, and I’ve done the Eastern Corridor route before,” said Mr Sairi, a six-year CSC member. “But it’s more fun this time with my colleagues. It’s a rare chance for us to bond outside of work and family commitments.”

Although it was Ms Cynthia Heng’s and her brother’s first CSC cycling event, the duo fully relished the experience.

One of them, Ms Cynthia Heng, stood out in a vibrant Chupa Chups-themed bike jersey. A first timer at a CSC cycling event, she was joined by her brother for the CSC Eastern Corridor Cycle. “We checked out the route a few days before to get a feel for it,” she said.

While the afternoon sun added to the challenge, Ms Heng appreciated the thoughtfully placed water stations along the way. “We usually cycle at night, but it was refreshing to ride during the day and take in the scenery,” she shared. The siblings agreed that the buffet lunch was a delightful reward, with Ms Heng joking, “It was what motivated my brother to sign us up!”

Pedalling passion: the CSC Cycling and Adventure Club

Members of the CSC Cycling & Adventure Club were also among the participants, including Mr Lim Chee Ming. In his early 70s, Mr Lim joined the Eastern Corridor Cycle with his fellow club members. “They’re wonderful people, and our shared passion for cycling brings us closer together,” he said.

For Mr Lim Chee Ming, cycling is a lifestyle that blends fitness, adventure and shared bonds.

For Mr Lim, cycling is more than just a hobby — it’s a lifestyle. He typically clocks a minimum of 50km per session, riding two to three times a week. His routine often includes stops at cafes or hawker centres for breakfast, seamlessly blending fitness with leisurely exploration.

The CSC Cycling & Adventure Club caters to long-distance cycling enthusiasts, regularly organising overseas tours to destinations like Taiwan and Australia, as well as short overland trips to Malaysia.

Members of the CSC Cycling & Adventure Club with Guest-of-Honour Mr Tan Hock Leong.

Savouring success at the finish line 

On their return to CSC @ Changi after the scenic and invigorating ride, participants were rewarded with goodie bags containing assortment of items such as shoe bags, towels and sports caps.  They then proceeded to the Canopy for a well-deserved buffet lunch. The buffet spread was a well-earned highlight, offering cyclists the chance to refuel.  Many could be seen sharing their exciting experience with fellow cyclists while enjoying the hearty meal.

Happy cyclists with their goodie bags.

Mr Mohd Sairi (left) with his colleagues enjoying their lunch.  

A resounding success with more to come

The CSC Eastern Corridor Cycle was more than just an event — it was a celebration of community, fitness and the love of cycling. From casual riders to seasoned veterans, participants came together to share stories, laughs and the joys of riding.

CSC extends heartfelt thanks to the volunteers and organising committee for their efforts in making this event a success. With plans for more cycling adventures on the horizon, there’s plenty for cycling enthusiasts to look forward to.

Ready to join the fun? Visit the STAR Games website or follow the CSC Cycling and Adventure Club on Facebook to stay updated on upcoming cycling events and activities.