Lael Wilcox Embarks on Ambitious Quest to Break Global Cycling Record
Ultra-endurance cyclist Lael Wilcox is gearing up for a monumental challenge, aiming to become the fastest human to cycle around the world. After smashing the women's record in 2024, she now sets her sights on Mark Beaumont's overall mark of 78 days and 14 hours, embarking on an 18,000-mile journey starting June 7 from Chicago.
From Adventure to Pure Racing: A Strategic Shift
Wilcox's previous circumnavigation took 108 days, but shaving 30 days off requires a radical shift from adventure riding to pure racing. This new approach emphasizes efficiency, aerodynamics, and meticulous planning. Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Wilcox has a proven track record, including winning the Trans Am Bike Race overall in 2016 and setting records on routes like the Baja Divide. At 39, she acknowledges this attempt demands unprecedented preparation and execution.
Unprecedented Support and Focus on Efficiency
For the first time in her 11-year career, Wilcox will ride with a full support crew, including her wife Rue Kaladyte, handling nutrition, logistics, and bike mechanics. This allows her to focus solely on pedaling for 16 hours daily. Her route prioritizes speed over scenery, minimizing elevation compared to her first attempt's 630,000 feet of climbs. Wilcox is obsessed with efficiency, undergoing aerodynamic testing and planning to shave her head to save time on grooming.
Key strategies include:
- Riding at 15 mph for 16 hours daily, up from 12 hours previously.
- Cutting unnecessary stops, as even brief chats added up to significant delays.
- Maintaining a strict schedule, starting at 4 AM and finishing by 9 PM to maximize daylight hours.
Rigorous Rules and Logistical Challenges
The around-the-world record has stringent rules: at least 18,000 miles, crossing all longitudes, starting and ending at the same point, and hitting two antipodal spots. The clock runs continuously, making direct flights between seven sections critical. Wilcox must use the same bike model throughout, though parts can be swapped. Her crew will manage everything from maintenance to weather-related route changes, with spare equipment on hand, including larger shoes for potential foot swelling.
Nutrition and Training for Peak Performance
Wilcox's diet has evolved from her first attempt, focusing on quality over quantity. She emphasizes carbs, fats, proteins, fruits, and vegetables, with sugary drinks for energy. Training involves building power on flats, gym strength work, yoga for mobility, and long rides to acclimate to distance. Despite crossing time zones, she plans to follow the sun naturally, embracing the journey's challenges.
Embracing the Journey with Optimism
Wilcox remains philosophical about the outcome, stating, "Worst case I get to ride a lot." Her primary goals are to enjoy the experience and prove women can compete with men in ultra-cycling. With her wife by her side, she views this as a privileged opportunity to explore new places and push personal limits.
