Announcing the 2022 Fasted 500

Returning for its second year, the Fasted 500 is an annual cycling challenge created by Swindon, UK-based lawyer and cyclist Zahir Nayani that encourages Muslim cyclists to stay active by riding 500 kilometers during the month of Ramadan, a time when many Muslims are less active than usual to conserve energy while fasting.

Inspired by Rapha’s longstanding Festive 500, which challenges participants to ride 500 kilometers between December 24th and 31st each year, the Fasted 500 is aimed at a broader group of Muslims with a more casual interest in cycling who can find the time to average a more attainable 17 kilometers a day during Ramadan’s 30-day span.

Participants who complete the Fasted 500 will be entitled to purchase the beautiful commemorative roundel, from which all profits will be donated to charity. The roundel was redesigned for 2022 and ties in oranges, pinks, and purples to represent the familiar hues of sunrise and sunset, as well as some subtle geometric patterns, which are a nod to the rich and illustrious history of Islamic design.

The 2022 Fasted 500 is supported by Rapha UK, Brother Cycles, and Wizard Works, and there will be three competitions running alongside the challenge this year with chances to win prizes for most creative Strava or Komoot route art, most inspirational cyclist, and an #IftarOutside competition that encourages riders to venture outside and post photos of their evening Iftar meals. Full details about the prizes on offer will be released on the Fasted 500 site soon.

To mix things up this year, Zahir told us he’ll be riding the Fasted 500 entirely off-road on his Surly Ogre, which is pictured below. It’s worth pointing out that participants are free to get their kilometers in however they can, whether that’s outside or riding the trainer, and pedaling in a fasted state isn’t a requirement, meaning night owls can also head out to ride at night after their Iftar.

You can find complete details about the Fasted 500 cycling challenge over on the Fasted500 website or on Instagram @fasted500. Best of luck to everyone participating this year!

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