A US “ultra-endurance” cyclist has set a new world record for being the fastest woman to circumnavigate the globe by bike. Lael Wilcox completed the 29,169 km (18,125 miles) journey in 108 days, 12 hours, and 12 minutes, starting and finishing in Chicago. She broke the previous record set in 2018 by Scotland’s Jenny Graham, whose ride took 124 days and 11 hours.
Fastest Woman to Cycle the Globe
Wilcox, 38, from Alaska, began her ride on May 28, crossing through 21 countries on four continents before returning to Chicago around 9:00 PM local time (2:00 AM GMT) on Wednesday. She cycled for up to 14 hours a day on this journey, which will now be verified for inclusion in the Guinness World Records.
Experts estimate that ultra-endurance cyclists can burn between 6,000 and 10,000 calories daily on such rides. “She has incredible physical stamina, mental toughness, and sheer determination to tackle these extreme challenges,” said Anne-Marije Rook, North America editor at Cycling Weekly magazine.
“It’s a tremendous feat to sustain this level of effort every day for 108 days straight.”
Wilcox was the first woman to win the Trans Am, a 4,000-mile race across the US. She also set records on the Tour Divide, racing along the American continental divide through the Rocky Mountains.
Although her latest record has been labeled as a “ride around the world,” there is little global for Guinness-charging cyclists to start and finish in the same location, but always in one direction.
During her travels, Wilcox encountered many hindrances—snowstorms, mechanical failure, and physical exhaustion—but her determination, combined with careful preparation, kept her on a pace necessary to break the record.
“I am over the top thrilled by this achievement,” says Wilcox in a statement after completing her ride. “It has been an incredible adventure that has thrown challenges and unforgettable moments my way. I could not do it without the support from my team, family, and everyone I met along the way.”
Wilcox’s record-breaking ride has drawn much attention and encouragement from the cycling world to the wider public. Her achievement represents a personal triumph as well as a good milestone in endurance sports. Many have praised her resilience, determination, and the magnitude of her achievement.
The previous record was held by British cyclist Jenny Graham, who, in 2018, completed the journey around the world in 125 days. More importantly for Wilcox is that his new record of 108 days not only breaks Graham’s time but also exemplifies a rising interest and competition in long-distance cycling challenges.
The achievement of Wilcox is also regarded as a testimony to perseverance and adventurous spirits. Many have been motivated by her journey, considering stretching themselves beyond their perceived limits and pursuing new possibilities, on and off the bike.
Besides the establishment of a record, Wilcox has also used this fame as an avenue for environmental awareness and the promotion of cycling as a means of transportation. Through her journey, she has shown humanity the beauty of the world and the diversity within and, at the same time, promulgated protection for future generations.
With Wilcox back home for a hero’s welcome, she intends to spend some time resting and reflecting upon this quite extraordinary achievement. Turning the page, she looks forward to continuing her advocacy work while seeking new projects that unite her love of cycling with her commitment to environmental and social causes.
Wilcox’s record-setting journey is a remarkable example of human endurance and the spirit of adventure. Her story is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and adventurers everywhere, proving that with determination and hard work, even the most ambitious goals are within reach.
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