176 days and 18,172 miles later, British cyclist Vin Cox has just pedaled his way into the record books for the fastest circumnavigation of the world, by bicycle.
Battling illness and severe weather conditions, the 34-year-old cycling instructor from Cornwall covered more than 100 miles per day for over five months, reports Britain’s Daily Telegraph. Not only did he have his sights set on smashing the current world record but he also took on the challenge to raise money for the Geoff Thomas Foundation, which works with the Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research charity to help sufferers gain access to life-saving treatments.
Arriving back at Greenwich in the UK on Sunday, Cox said he was thrilled, if a little tired. “I enjoyed it but I’m happy it’s over,” he said, according to Britain’s Daily Express. “The biggest challenges were North Africa and India because I was hitting temperatures of 30C and 40C after coming from freezing conditions in London and France — it was overwhelming.”
Founder of his eponymous charity, former soccer star Geoff Thomas was diagnosed with leukemia in 2003 and after life-saving bone marrow treatment has been fundraising ever since. Commenting on Cox’s record-breaking achievement he said: “I completed the Tour de France after going into remission from my leukemia and that was one of the toughest things I have ever done. To cycle ten-times that distance uninterrupted and keep going takes an amazing amount of physical and mental strength — it’s inspirational.”
It certainly is, especially when you consider that Cox, is already planning his next trip — the first ever bicycle race around the world. With the trip planned for 2012, let’s hope he’s planning a little rest first. To donate to his charity, please click here.
Photo via justgiving.com/Vin-Cox.
