Lael Wilcox Smashes Guinness World Record with 108-Day Ride Around the World
Betsy Welch • September 12, 2024
Wilcox, 37, rode 18,125 Miles miles during her journey, which is slightly more than the circumference of the globe.
Lael Wilcox has done it again.
At 6:14 p.m. CST on Wednesday, September 11, Wilcox pedaled up to the Buckingham Fountain in downtown Chicago and unclipped from her bicycle. An ear-to-ear grin broke out across her face. The 37-year-old had just set a new record: the women’s Guinness World Record for the fastest circumnavigation of the globe by bicycle.
Wilcox, a decorated ultra-cyclist and bikepacking racer, completed her monumental ride in 108 days, 12 hours, and 12 minutes, smashing the previous record of 124 days and 11 hours, held since 2018 by Scottish cyclist Jenny Graham.
The May Flyer Double 100 (also known as the SWRC May Flyer) is a long-standing cycling sportive in the UK. It is organised by the South Western Road Club (SWRC) and has been running for over 25 years. The "Double 100" refers to the event's signature offering of two distinct route options for participants: The Flyer: A 100-kilometre (approx. 62-mile) route that meanders through the North Downs and Surrey Hills. The Flyer Challenge: A 100-mile (approx. 162-kilometre) route that crosses the North Downs into West Sussex and back. Event Details Next Event Date: Sunday, 17th May 2026. Start/Finish Location: Cobham Village Hall, Surrey. Terrain: Scenic but challenging, featuring notable climbs like Staple Lane, Pitch Hill, and Combe Bottom. Entry: Limited to 500 riders, with registration typically available through platforms like SiEntries. Charity: All profits from the event are donated to local charities. https://www.swrc.org.uk/may-flyer/about-the-may-flyer
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