Bengaluru, Sep 30 (IANS): The SBI-Great Malnad Challenge cycle race covering 700 kilometres and to be held from October 31 to November 7, was officially launched here on Wednesday.

The race will start from Madikeri and finish at Marwanthe, a coastal town near Udupi, with over 100 cyclists from across India expected to participate.

"It is a novel initiative that has been organized by ICycle.in to promote eco-tourism in the State and also to encourage the use of bicycles as a mode of transport," SBI chief general manager Rajni Mishra said.

"SBI takes great pride to be associated for the second time, with such a noble cause. This is the second year that SBI is associated with this event."

Manjesh Chandrashekaran, president of ICycle.in said,"The main objective of this challenge is to promote eco-tourism along with encouraging people to take up cycling.

"Over the years we have seen an increase in the number of participants and cycling enthusiasts. We hope to strengthen this interest in cycling among the people."