Autumn Issue, 2017

Cycling unites Riccians By Raymond Chow 周學文 (Riccian; BSocSc 1987) “When Riccians get together, we always dare ourselves to do as much as we are able.” Nineteen Riccians, mostly in their 50s, reached the summit of Mount Hehuan – Wuling at 3,275 metres (10,745 feet) on bicycles. Mount Hehuan is Taiwan’s tallest mountain that is accessible by road, and Wuling is generally heralded as the hallmark of cycling, the “Mecca” of cyclists. On May 1, they started before dawn and finished this 55km-long, 2800m-elevation climb in central Taiwan in nine hours. Some of the gradients exceeded 10% toward the summit. The fastest Riccian, Hong Chung-yin 康仲賢 (BEng(EEE) 1996), reached the top within five hours. These 19 amateur cyclists, graduates from the 80s and 90s, sang the hall anthem “Ricci Cheer” at the top, after overcoming cramps, fatigue and the thin air. The emotion felt upon completing this mountain climb was clearly written on the face of every rider. “It was as much a mind game as a physical challenge,” said Chan Hoi-to 陳海濤 (BDS 1989), leader of the group. “When Riccians get together, we always dare ourselves to do as much as we are able.” This group of Riccians won many championships when they competed for the Malayan Cup during their university days. Even after graduation, this winning mindset continues in their work and family lives. Simon Fung 馮偉賢 (BA 1987; MBuddhStud 2007), an award-winning advertising expert, said, “It’s amazing that this bond has lasted 30-odd years and counting. It is a treasure to all of us.” Another accomplished Riccian, dentist Francis Chan 陳和芝 (BDS 1988; PDipDS 1995; MSc(ImplantDent) 2009) said, “Our brotherhood is not just a social connection. It is trust and support that unites us together.” In addition to cycling, Riccians play football, softball, hockey and other sports together. For Simon, Hoi-to, Francis, and all other Riccians, the Ricci spirit is all that matters. We start at daybreak. We celebrate the last arrival. The most memorable moment: all 19 Riccian cyclists gather at the summit. 70 Class Notes