Lael Wilcox is going all in. The iconic ultra cyclist is going after the Around the World record. While the Alaskan has already set quite a fast time for circumnavigating the globe by bike, this time she’s going after the men’s record. Wilcox will try to complete the feat in under 78 days.
That would be two days faster that Jules Verne’s Phileas Fogg. A lot has changed since 1872, of course. Wilcox is targeting a much more recent record than the fictional Fogg.
Targetting the record. The men’s record
Specifically, that goal would put her 14 hours ahead of current world record holder, Mark Beaumont. The Scottish rider set the reigning benchmard in 2017, recognized by Guiinness World Records, completing his journey in 78 days and 14 hours. His effort reportedly involved three support vehicles and eight staff.
Beating a 78-day record by 14 hours sounds like a small margin, but the numbers involved are simply staggering.
Wilcox’s last circumnavigation in 2024 saw her average 12 hours of riding a day, averaging 24 km/h. She rode that fully loaded, taking the scenic route and making stops to visit with people along the route.
The 2026 rout is all business. Wilcox is aiming for a jaw-dropping 240 miles a day (386 km). Every day. For 78 days (or less). Totaling a minimum of 29,000 km (18,000 miles).
That means a daily tally of 16 hours in the saddle averaging at least 15 mph (24 km/h).
“We’re going all in”
To meet that staggering challenge, Wilcox is doing something she has not done in 11 years of ultra racing. She will ride fully supported.
“This is the most ambitious and expensive goal of my life,” Wilcox admits.
The goal, though, isn’t just to beat the record. Wilcox is motivated by a grander purpose.
“Ultra distance cycling is one of the only sports where women get the opportunity to compete against the entire field,” Wilcox explains, adding “However, our capacity is still constantly doubted. We need more women to prove what’s possible.”
Lael Wilcox is scheduled to start her circumnavigation record attempt on June 7 in Chicago. Before that, she will do a “trial run” with her support team to ride across the U.S.A. in March.
Since bringing a full support team along for a 78 day adventure (plus the trial run across the U.S.) is quite a financial endeavour as well as a physical one, Wilcox is open to anyone who wants to support the project. Visit the athlete’s website for info on how to do so.
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