Beyond cycling for charity, Makkah 2 Medina traces Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s hijrah

The Makkah 2 Medina (M2M) was more than just a cycling event for charity fundraising, but a deeply spiritual journey that took participants through some of the most significant sites for Muslim as they traced the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during Hijrah Sharif.

Organised by Islamic Relief UK, the charity body said the event served as a crucial reminder on the strength of faith, the power of camaraderie and the importance of perseverance throughout the four days journey spanning 500km. 

The organisation added in a statement, the event also became an opportunity for the participants to reflect, heal and connect to something much greater than themselves.

One of the M2M participants, Shahzad Sharif stated that the event carried a deeply personal significance as his engagement was sparked by the loss of his younger brother in a tragic car accident earlier this year, followed by his father shortly after a family Umrah trip. 

Participants on day one of the challenge, gearing up for a long journey ahead. (photo credit: Islamic Relief UK)

The sense of duty and personal commitment to his loved ones soon turned into a powerful journey of faith that outweighed his hesitation on whether he could physically complete the challenge or not, since he stopped cycling over 20 years ago. 

“I started with 10km rides, and it was tough— my legs felt like they were going to give way but with time, the miles started adding up and the support from my cycling brothers kept me going. 

“This was not just about cycling, but it was about remembrance where every kilometre and every penny raised is an offering to my family and an ongoing charity for them.

“This ride is in memory of my father and my younger brother. Insha Allah, every mile I cycle is a prayer for them,” he said.

Medina– also known as the city of the Prophet (PBUH) – became a strong motivation to complete the journey. 

He also found himself moved by the historical significance of the route they were cycling, such as the valley of the Black Lava where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was stopped by traders on his Hijrah journey.

Reflecting on the experience, he said it reminded him that the challenge was bigger than any of them and the journey was about honouring the sacrifices of those who came before us. 

Likewise, another M2M participant, Haroon Abbas recalled that the expedition was a test of both physical endurance and mental strength, especially after he struggled with travel fatigue due to delayed flight that left him only two hours to catch a connecting flight.

“I was exhausted before we even started, and I was not sure if I was ready for this, but there was no turning back.

Participants had also completed Umrah in Makkah prior to their cycling journey towards Medina.

“The training had been tough, although I know nothing could prepare me for what lay ahead.

“I did not know if I could keep up with the group, but I had to try,” he said. 

Elaborating further on his experience, he said the group had walked 36,000 steps to complete Umrah before they began cycling, adding to his exhaustion following his arrival in Makkah after 30 hours of travel. 

However, the challenges did not stop there as his journey continues to be rocky and riddled with obstacles such as extreme and blazing heat, pressure of the long ride, punctured tires, as well as mechanical issues that pushed him to his breaking point. 

Islamic Relief is a major Muslim charity body that is present globally in many countries, including Malaysia. (photo credit: Islamic Relief)

“At one point, I was so dehydrated that I did not know how I would finish the day, but I kept thinking about the bigger picture– about what we were doing, supporting those in need through Islamic Relief.

“As we cycled, I kept reflecting on the story of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s hijrah, and it reminded me that hardships are part of this journey.

“The Prophet (PBUH) faced so many challenges, and I knew I could not quit,” he said.

Through their efforts, the group helped raise vital funds for Islamic Relief’s work in communities globally which not only marked a satisfactory completion of an incredible physical challenge but also left a lasting impact on the lives of others– one that will continue to inspire and benefit people for years to come.