To help his son understand the challenges of life and cultivate perseverance, Lan Yuyong, a man in his 40s from Mianzhu, accompanied his son on a bicycle journey that took 23 days and covered over 2,000 kilometers to report to Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications. Yesterday, Lan Yuyong, who has already returned home to Mianzhu, said, “I accompanied my son on a meaningful journey in life.”
Lan Kaixin, 18, is an only child and was always doted on by his elders at home. With his son about to leave home to study in a different city, Lan Yuyong kept thinking about how to give him a chance to grow. Eventually, the sports-loving father came up with a bold idea: cycling to Beijing together to report to university. The idea was supported by his son, so Lan Yuyong applied for official leave. He explained that this way of traveling holds appeal for any teenager around 18 or 19.
Before setting off, Lan Yuyong prepared his son mentally – the 2,000-kilometer journey would involve complex road conditions and crossing the Qinling Mountains. He told his son that once they started, they must persevere to the end, “Unless there’s a natural disaster or a threat to our safety, we shouldn’t quit easily.”
The ride was tough, but the scenery along the way captivated both father and son. Flat tires became a common occurrence during the trip. Lan Yuyong recalled that when they reached Sanmenxia, their bike tires blew out seven times in one day due to all the metal debris on the road. The frequent stops to fix the tires cost them a lot of time. That day, Lan Kaixin became frustrated, “At this rate, how long will it take to get to school? By the time we arrive, classes might have already started.” After being comforted by his father, they pressed on. Along the journey, the pair checked in with their family daily via the internet or phone so their loved ones could keep track of their progress, and Lan Yuyong’s wife also quietly followed their route.
After 23 days of cycling, father and son safely arrived in Beijing on August 22. Throughout the trip, including expenses for attraction tickets, food, accommodation, and transport, the pair spent a total of 4,000 yuan.