Senior completes 450km ride for a cause
Chelvathamby Kularajah
Along the winding roads of Sri Lanka, where history lives on and resilience defines the present, 70 cyclists set out on a journey that was about far more than endurance. The 9th annual Trek4Ceylon Tour of Jaffna, held from February 12 to 15, was not just a ride but a mission of purpose — a testament to human perseverance and a beacon of hope for St. Luke’s Methodist Mission Hospital in Puttur, Jaffna.
Among the riders was 74-year-old Chelvathamby Kularajah, whose presence was as inspiring as the cause itself. Born to Proctor Chelvathamby and Kanthimathy of Puloly, Jaffna, Kularajah immigrated to Australia nearly three decades ago. Yet, the call of his homeland never faded. This year, he returned—not merely as a visitor, but as a champion for a cause that resonated deeply within his heart.
Riding alongside his sons, Pirashanth and Kirishanth, he embarked on a 450-kilometer journey from Colombo to Puttur spanning four gruelling days. The journey weaved through Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes — from the coastal roads of Chilaw to the sacred grounds of Anuradhapura, through the battle-scarred plains of Kilinochchi, and finally into Jaffna.
At 74, Kularajah was the oldest participant, yet his spirit rivalled those of much younger. With each pedal stroke, he defied age and expectations, inspiring fellow riders and onlookers alike. For Kularajah, the challenge was not merely about endurance—it was about demonstrating that neither age nor time could diminish one’s will to make a difference.
The Trek4Ceylon ride was not only a test of stamina, but a rallying call for a vital cause. Kularajah and his fellow riders cycled not for personal achievement but to raise funds for St. Luke’s Methodist Mission Hospital, a lifeline for the region. Their combined efforts raised over £130,000, a staggering sum that will directly support essential healthcare services for the community.
As the cyclists crossed the final stretch into Puttur, their arrival was met with pride and emotion. Kularajah, flanked by his sons, rode into the hospital grounds not just as a man completing a ride, but as a symbol of hope and the power of collective action. His journey reflected the profound bond between homeland and humanity — a connection that time and distance could not erode.