Sabah Veterinarian Claims Victory by Setting Records in Paris-Brest-Paris, the World’s Oldest Cycling Event

The cycling sport has taken up significant momentum encouraging enthusiasts to embark on long rides relying on the two-wheeler. Similarly, a veterinarian from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, had accomplished an exceptional cycling feat by being part of the renowned Paris-Brest-Paris (PBP) event that is hosted in France. 

The remarkable record set by Dr. Dennis Lim has startled the cycling community, encouraging them to take up experimental rides. In this article, we will be learning about Dr. Lim’s record and the challenges entwined in the PBP event.  

Vet’s passion for cycling turned into creating records

The PBP event commenced back in the year 1891 and since then has attracted cycling enthusiasts from all around the world. By participating in the event in France, Dr. Lim conquered a staggering 1,225 kilometers within a stringent time limit of 90 hours. Cycling for more than a decade, the doctor has embarked on different adventures, conquering thousands of kilometers paroling on his Roubaix endurance bicycle.  

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The Paris-Brest-Paris event covers a strenuous 1200-kilometer distance, enveloping a loop starting from Paris to Brest and then returning to the French capital. Within this race, there are two categories, namely brevet (randonnee) featuring only individual cyclists and audax for the individual rides.

Competing with 8,000 riders from 70 countries sharing the same enthusiasm, Dr. Lim shared his reason behind taking up the challenge with The Star. “I enjoy seeing the world at a slower pace. Driving a car or using public transport does not allow the liberty of seeing things along the journey.”   

Challenges and unforgettable moments along the way

In order to participate in PBP, the riders are required to qualify by completing a series of brevets covering a total of 1,300 kilometers in different sets, including small distances ranging between 200 km and 600 km. For this year’s event, the participants needed to complete the feats between November 2021 and October 2022. 

As a preparatory stance, Dr. Lim has achieved the cycling distance in his native country cycling through Sabah and Brunei. Since his participation in the PBP required a rigorous blend of physical fitness and mental fortitude, he included weekly routines of wheeling around Kota Kinabalu. 

On his way to the finishing point, Dr. Lim took the necessary rest breaks, spending his time at the roadside sleeping during the dark hours of midnight till dawn. Hailing from Malaysia and being subjected to weather changes in Paris, the vet has been exposed to extremities. However, he enjoyed every bit of his ride, from being able to savor local cuisine to receiving the warmth of the villagers.

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Reiterating his experience taking part in the PBP, Dr. Lim emphasized the bonds and camaraderie that he garnered throughout the race were priceless and something that monetary privilege fails to purchase. Although, immediately he has no plans for any other race, he wishes to explore the world at a slower pace on his two-wheeler friend.