In October, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) took part in the Academic Bicycle Challenge (ABC) for the second time, an international cycling competition bringing together universities from around the world. Students and staff rose to the challenge, cycling an impressive 44,720 kilometres between them and securing a provisional fourth place in the global rankings. By taking part, VUB also aims to highlight the importance of sustainable mobility. After all, cycling offers a solution to two major challenges: the climate crisis and mobility problems in major cities such as Brussels.
A total of 228 members of the VUB community took part in the challenge, around 100 more than last year. This sporting achievement proves that VUB has more to offer than brainpower alone.
A podium finish was well within reach: just 4,583 kilometres separated VUB from third place, claimed by Germany’s Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences. Could we make the top three next year?
VUB also made its mark in the individual rankings. Staff member Laurent Segers cycled an impressive 2,435 kilometres in October, making him not only VUB’s top cyclist but also the fourth-ranked participant worldwide.
Celebrate the challenge with a free breakfast
Did you take part in the challenge? Join us on Wednesday 4 November, between 7.00 and 9.30 am, for a free breakfast on the Esplanade at VUB Main Campus in Etterbeek!
Dirk Van de Wiele (alias Dixie)
"Almost twice as many kilometres cycled, more than 100 additional participants and an impressive fourth place in the global rankings. Now that's progress, and a fantastic achievement for our university. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who took part. On to the next challenge!"
- Dixie, Head of Movement and Sport at VUB
About the Academic Bicycle Challenge
The ABC is an international initiative that challenges universities worldwide to cycle as many kilometres as possible. VUB participants could register and take part throughout the entire month of October.
The university organised various activities on the VUB Main Campus in Etterbeek and the VUB Health Campus in Jette to encourage students and staff to get involved in the competition.