Employees of Metinvest's enterprises in Kryvyi Rih have a long-standing tradition of opening the annual cycling season together, and this year was no exception. Warm weather and sunny days provided an excellent opportunity for active leisure and group bike rides for young employees of Integrated Iron Ore Plants.
This time, seven participants joined the sporting initiative: four employees from Central Iron Ore and three from Northern Iron Ore. For the first ride after winter, a comfortable distance of around 20 km round trip was selected to test endurance and gradually return to an active rhythm.
The route was familiar to many participants: from the building of the Personnel Recruitment and Development Department at Central Iron Ore to the Hleiuvatka Reservoir – one of Kryvyi Rih's picturesque locations. The cycling trip became an opportunity not only to challenge themselves but also to enjoy the spring greenery and spend time with like-minded colleagues.
A traditional stop was organised by the water, featuring a barbecue and discussions about the youth movement at the plants and upcoming events.
A duty electric fitter and equipment maintenance fitter at the beneficiation plant of Central Iron Ore, Denys SHEVTSOV, who actively participates in youth activities, shared his impressions:
"I am a supporter of active leisure, and I enjoy events that bring together young employees of the plants. I have been cycling for many years and regularly take part in plant cycling events. It always gives me energy and a good mood. I know this route well, but the main thing here is the time spent together, communication and meeting new people. I am looking forward to new routes and experiences."
A traction unit driver assistant at the Railway Office of Northern Iron Ore, Bogdan KHLIBYSHIN, emphasised that youth activities are primarily about a sense of unity.
"I always look forward to every youth event – whether it is a quiz, a trip to the blood donation centre, a visit to a boarding school for children, or a cycling event like this. It is great to see the youth community at the plants growing as new people join. I would like cycling activities to become even more popular among colleagues, as movement brings joy and is a great way to relax outdoors."
Participants note that regardless of one's level of fitness, the most important aspects of cycling trips are a positive attitude, a comfortable pace, and compliance with basic safety rules: carrying enough water, sun protection, and wearing a helmet.
According to Illia SHOSTOV, Head of Central Iron Ore's Youth Hub, the youth team plans to organise two cycling rides per month this year. Therefore, the sporting family of Integrated Iron Ore Plants will be happy to welcome new participants to explore new routes together. And for those who do not yet own a bicycle, the Youth Hub of Central Iron Ore has its own "fleet" of bikes available for use.
