Mangaluru: Proving that age is no barrier to chasing one’s dreams, 60-year-old entrepreneur and avid motorcyclist Sharath Gabriel has embarked on an ambitious solo motorcycle expedition across 38 countries aboard his Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650. The journey, expected to cover between 35,000 and 45,000 kilometres over the next five to six months, could earn him recognition as one of the world’s oldest riders to successfully complete such an extensive global motorcycle tour.
Grand send-off for historic journey
The expedition began with a special prayer service and blessing ceremony at CSI Shanti Cathedral Church, Balmatta. Fr Sebastian Jathanna and Fr Goldin J Bangera offered prayers and blessings for Gabriel’s safety and success as he set out on the historic ride.
The official flag-off ceremony was conducted by Mangaluru International Airport Chief Airport Officer Binu Varghese and Yenepoya Deemed-to-be University Admissions Manager Ronald Ivan Soans, who jointly waved the green flag to mark the beginning of the expedition.
The event drew motorcycle enthusiasts, family members, friends and supporters who gathered to witness the start of Gabriel’s remarkable adventure. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as well-wishers wished him success on the challenging journey ahead.
Former Mangaluru South MLA J R Lobo attended the programme as the chief guest and praised Gabriel’s determination and adventurous spirit. He said that undertaking such a demanding mission at the age of 60 is an inspiration to younger generations and demonstrates that passion and perseverance can overcome age-related barriers.
Lobo extended his best wishes to Gabriel and expressed confidence that he would complete the journey successfully.
Route spans Asia, Europe and Gulf nations
The ambitious expedition will take Gabriel through Nepal, Tibet, China, Kazakhstan and Russia before covering 29 countries across Europe. Several Gulf nations are also part of the planned route.
The journey has been carefully mapped out to provide an opportunity to experience different cultures, landscapes and road conditions while highlighting the endurance required for long-distance motorcycling. Riding solo, Gabriel will encounter a variety of terrains, including mountain passes, highways, countryside routes and urban roads.
The expedition is expected to test both physical and mental endurance, requiring long hours on the road and meticulous planning for international travel.
Passion and preparation behind the mission
Gabriel’s passion for motorcycling has played a significant role in shaping this extraordinary journey. Months of preparation have gone into planning the route, securing travel documents, preparing the motorcycle and ensuring readiness for the challenges that lie ahead.
Long-distance motorcycle touring has become increasingly popular among adventure enthusiasts. However, completing a journey of this scale at the age of 60 makes Gabriel’s endeavour particularly remarkable.
Supporters believe the expedition will encourage others to pursue their dreams regardless of age and inspire adventure seekers across the country.
Aiming for a record-breaking achievement
Upon successfully completing the expedition, Gabriel is expected to create a historic milestone by becoming one of the oldest riders to accomplish such an extensive solo motorcycle tour across multiple continents.
The achievement would not only mark a personal triumph but also bring recognition to the region’s growing adventure motorcycling community. His journey serves as a testament to determination, courage and the belief that age should never be a limitation when pursuing extraordinary goals.
As Gabriel travels across continents in the coming months, supporters from across the country will be following his progress with keen interest. If completed as planned, the expedition will stand as a remarkable example of endurance, dedication and the enduring spirit of adventure.