Lael Wilcox, an extraordinary athlete and adventurer, is embarking on a quest that will push the boundaries of human endurance and challenge gender norms in the world of ultra-cycling. Her mission? To become the fastest human to cycle around the globe, breaking records and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
The Record-Breaking Journey
On September 11, 2024, Lael Wilcox returned to Chicago, having shattered the women's cycling record for circumnavigating the world. Her journey, spanning 18,000 miles and 22 countries, was an incredible feat, but it left her with an ambitious question: could she beat the overall record held by Mark Beaumont?
To achieve this, Lael must transform her approach, shifting from adventure riding to pure racing. It's a philosophical pivot that emphasizes efficiency, aerodynamics, and meticulous planning. Her motivation is clear: to prove that women can compete with men in ultra-cycling, a sport often dominated by male athletes.
A Veteran of High-Profile Races
Lael Wilcox is no novice when it comes to beating the boys. In 2016, she finished first overall in the Trans Am Bike Race, a grueling 4,200-mile event across the United States. She also set records in the Baja Divide and the Tour Divide, solidifying her reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the world of ultra-cycling.
However, the around-the-world record is a different beast altogether. Lael acknowledges that it will demand an even higher level of preparation, strategy, and execution. For the first time, she'll be riding with a full support crew, allowing her to focus solely on pedaling for up to 16 hours a day.
The Quest for Efficiency
Lael's route is meticulously designed for speed, minimizing elevation gains. She plans to ride non-stop for two and a half months, but her margin for error is slim—likely measured in minutes. Every detail counts, from aerodynamic testing to eating meals on the bike. Lael has even considered shaving her head to save time on hair care!
She aims to maintain a pace of 15 mph for 16 hours daily, which, if successful, will allow her to sleep more each night. Cutting out unnecessary stops is a key focus for this attempt. Lael has learned from her previous ride, where she often stopped to chat with fans, losing valuable time.
The Rules of the Record
Setting the record is not just about speed and endurance. The rules are strict: Lael must travel at least 18,000 miles, cross all lines of longitude, and travel in a single direction. She must start and end at the same spot and reach two antipodal points on Earth's surface. The clock runs continuously, so direct flights between sections are crucial.
Her support crew, including her wife, Rue Kaladyte, will travel in an RV, checking on Lael several times a day. They'll handle everything from camping spots to meals, route changes due to weather, and bike maintenance, often while Lael sleeps. This level of support is a significant departure from her self-supported races, where she had to manage these logistics herself.
Training and Preparation
Lael has been training rigorously, focusing on efficiency and power on the flats, an area she typically finds challenging. She's spending more time at a lower cadence, working on seated power, and building strength in the gym. Yoga classes have also been a part of her training regimen, improving her mobility.
Despite the challenges, Lael remains positive. She doesn't dwell on worst-case scenarios, instead choosing to focus on the privilege of attempting such an extraordinary feat. As she puts it, "Worst case I get to ride my bike a lot."
The Journey Ahead
As Lael prepares for her second attempt, her main goal is to enjoy the journey. She knows there will be tough moments, but she aims to savor 90% of the experience. With her wife by her side, she's taking on a challenge that excites and terrifies them both. It's a testament to her resilience and determination.
Lael Wilcox's story is a powerful reminder that records are made to be broken, and that gender should never be a barrier to achievement. Her journey is a testament to the power of human spirit and the endless possibilities that lie within us all.
