BFD 2015 kicks off

BANGKOK, Dec 11 (TNA) -- The long anticipated Bike For Dad (BFD) 2015 cycling event is set to commence at 3pm, Thailand's time today, where cyclists are making final preparations ahead of the official start and authorities are ensuring that all safety measures are in place for successful and smooth event. The event of the year is organised in honour and celebrations of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 88th birthday anniversary on December 5, 2015. The cycling caravan would be led by HRH Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha and HRH Princess Siriwanwaree Nareerat, which would be followed by high ranking officials and delegation, and closing the caravan with the general public. Cyclists are set to ride for total distance of 29 kilometres this afternoon, starting from Royal Plaza through to Ratchaprasong Intersection and Chulalongkorn University, where the caravan would take its first half hour rest. The cyclists would then continue onto Silom road and into Bangkok's China Town or Yaowarat district, then head up Phra Pok Klao bridge through to Wongwian Yai and Arunamarin road, before make another half hour stop at the Old Palace. The riders would then cycle to Siriraj Hospital and up the Rama 8 bridge then ride off the bridge back into the Royal Plaza, which would be the finish line. Although today, December 11 has not been declared by the government as national holiday, a large number of the public is more than eager to participate in the event to express their loyalty and love the HM the King or the Father of all Thai people. Meanwhile, traffic in the Thai capital has remained normal so far, as all schools in Bangkok have been asked to cancel classes for the day. More roads have now been temporary closed off to allow the biking caravan to pass through, but would be reopened after the cyclists rode passed to ensure their safety. Not only would the Thais in Thailand be joining in with the event, but Thais living abroad in 66 other countries around the globe would also be participating in the cycling event to show their love to HM the King and to wish Him good health and longevity. (TNA)