THE CELEBRATION OF PERSEVERANCE: THE 2024 KÉSZ GROUP BALATONFONDO

In 2024, the KÉSZ Group BalatonFondo cycling race was held for the second time, becoming a true celebration of cycling along the shores of Lake Balaton and in the Balaton Uplands. On an exceptionally cold, November-like September Saturday morning, a large number of participants gathered to test themselves on various distances. The diversity of the participants highlighted the richness of cycling, as women made up over 10% of the competitors, and international cyclists were present in significant numbers, further enhancing the event’s international prestige.

Dr. Domonkos Schneller, the event's chief patron and president of the Hungarian Cycling Federation, who also participated in the race, shared his thoughts at the finish line: “Today once again proved that cycling has gained significant popularity in Hungary in recent years. The perseverance and performance of the participants inspire all of us, as everyone successfully – and most importantly, safely – reached the finish line.” He added: “It’s especially heartwarming that amateurs have role models like Valter Attila, who participated as an ambassador, alongside competitors like Dina Márton and Vas Blanka, who excel not only in Hungary but internationally. They are living examples that cycling has a bright future in Hungary.”

Valter Attila, participating as an ambassador, proudly praised the participants’ achievements: “In the first truly cold race of the year, completing the course under such harsh weather conditions is a huge achievement. It’s also worth keeping an eye on the results of young riders, as many of them may have professional careers ahead.” The strong winds that emerged after the race validated the organizers’ decision to shorten the event to the Mediofondo distance, avoiding the longer, wind-exposed sections. Safety was the priority.

In 2024, the top step of the podium featured competitors as young as 15 and those over 65, demonstrating that cycling is open and accessible to all age groups.

Beyond the official race program, children also had the chance to shine, with the youngest podium finisher being a three-year-old girl.

Throughout the race, participants not only competed against each other but also battled the elements. The Balaton Uplands showed its less friendly face this time: 8°C, rain, and strong winds challenged the cyclists. Yet, they persevered heroically. While the peloton stayed together until the Tihany climb, the section broke the field into smaller groups, with glimpses of sunshine offering brief solace to the soaked cyclists.

Dina Márton highlighted how much he enjoyed the event: “Cycling around Lake Balaton is always a joy, even in such challenging conditions. The cold weather and wind posed difficulties, but the high-quality organization and the diverse course made the race exciting. By the end of the race, the sun came out, making the finish line moments especially memorable.”

The perseverance and spirit shown by the participants were truly exemplary. The organizers were particularly proud that, despite the adverse weather, so many people started and all reached the finish line. This determination perfectly reflects one of cycling's core values, which the KÉSZ Group BalatonFondo showcased flawlessly.

The event sent a clear message: commitment to cycling continues to grow in Hungary, strengthening the bond between amateurs and professionals. BalatonFondo provides a platform for cyclists of all levels to challenge themselves while celebrating the sport as a community.

The organizers of the KÉSZ Group BalatonFondo also announced that participants who opted for the shorter distance due to the weather would receive discounted registration for next spring's event, allowing them to attempt the longer course.

Varga Mihály, founder and chairman of the KÉSZ Group Supervisory Board, proudly emphasized: “It was a great joy for me to participate alongside my colleagues – 21 of us rode together, and another 17 supported the riders at refreshment stations. The KÉSZ Group has always believed in the power of community and that this unity can be further strengthened through sport. Once again, we proved that as a team, we can always rise to any challenge.”

The event wasn’t just about performance; it also focused on community experiences, with numerous additional services provided to participants, from repair stations to refreshment points. After the race, the Balatonfüred City Swimming Pool offered wellness services where participants could relax and recover from their efforts.

The KÉSZ Group BalatonFondo has undoubtedly proven to be a true celebration of perseverance, unity, and passion for sport along the shores of Lake Balaton.