Lael Wilcox completes 18,000-mile journey in 108 days

Lael Wilcox, a 38-year-old cyclist from Alaska, completed an extraordinary journey of 18,000 miles in just 108 days, arriving back in Chicago on a Wednesday evening. Her route took her through 21 countries across four continents, showcasing her remarkable endurance and determination. Wilcox cycled up to 14 hours daily, a feat that requires burning between 6,000 to 10,000 calories each day, demonstrating the physical demands of ultra-endurance cycling. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by Jenny Graham, who completed her journey in 124 days and 11 hours in 2018. Wilcox's journey began on May 28, where she first traveled to New York before flying to Portugal. She then cycled through various European countries, crossed the Alps, and made her way through Turkey to Georgia. Her travels continued with flights to Australia and New Zealand, before returning to the U.S. via Anchorage and Los Angeles. Wilcox's record attempt is set to be verified by Guinness World Records, which stipulates that the entire journey must include a minimum distance of 28,970 km traveled by bicycle. The journey's planning and execution were meticulously documented through social media and a daily podcast, providing insights into the challenges faced along the way. Experts and fellow cyclists have praised Wilcox's achievement, highlighting the inspiration it provides to other athletes, particularly women. Her success not only pushes the limits of cycling but also challenges societal perceptions of female athletes, encouraging others to pursue their own ambitious goals.