Cycling

"Velorukh" is the first comprehensive publication that immerses the reader in the modern phenomenon of cycling culture in Ukraine. The publication contains vivid illustrated stories about exciting cycling trips, competitions, the activities of cycling clubs, as well as about iconic cycling cafes and workshops. In addition, the book reveals the stories of members of the cycling community who actively defend Ukraine, and highlights the role of the bicycle during the war - as a means of transportation where it becomes a real challenge.

The book is divided into four main sections:

• Travel: A cycling guide that helps you discover how almost any corner of Ukraine is accessible for cycling trips, provided you choose the right vehicle and route.
• Sports: An overview of the most popular types of cycling in Ukraine and key races in which you can participate.
• Bicycle and the City: Stories about iconic cycling spots and events that bring cyclists together and can interest a wide audience.
• Bicycle during war: Stories about how the bicycle became an indispensable assistant in newly deoccupied cities and villages.

A separate section is dedicated to illustrations by contemporary Ukrainian artists, including works by Roman Ruban, Natalia Shulga, Serhiy Maydukov, and others.

More than 70 authors, photographers, and illustrators contributed to the creation of this publication, all of whom are closely connected with Ukrainian cycling culture.

About the editors

Yuriy Makalis is an Odessa native who has been fascinated by bicycles in all their forms since childhood: from a small tricycle to the Shkolyar, Salyut models and the first aluminum Specialized, which he purchased during his student years. Since 2012, he has been an active member of the oldest cycling club in Odessa, Atlet. He has traveled extensively, exploring the world both on a bicycle and as a navigator - from Hawaii to Alaska, from Norway to Australia. Upon returning to Odessa, he joined the Southern Cycling League, an organizer of local and international road races. One of his greatest hobbies is photographing cycling events, for which he won the prestigious Mark Gunter Photo Awards in 2022.

Maria Shevchenko is an IT entrepreneur and co-founder of the Maya charity foundation. Her acquaintance with cycling began in 2012, when she and her friends went on a trip around the outskirts of Kyiv on a rare Botteccia. Maria has participated in road cycling competitions, is a member of the Echelon cycling club, organizes a series of events for the cycling community “1CHSS Party”, and is a co-author of the first Ukrainian podcast about cycling, Rotor and Glitter.