Cyclist Lael Wilcox Sets New Women's Around-the-World Record

Wilcox completed the global circumnavigation in just 108 days, besting the previous mark by over two weeks.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:25am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a cyclist riding through a mountainous landscape, with brushstrokes and shapes that evoke a sense of speed and determination.Lael Wilcox's record-breaking around-the-world cycling journey showcases the incredible physical and mental fortitude required to push the boundaries of human endurance.Chicago Today

In September 2024, endurance cyclist Lael Wilcox returned to her hometown of Chicago after an extraordinary 18,000-mile journey around the world on her bicycle. Wilcox had smashed the previous women's record for the fastest circumnavigation by more than two weeks, completing the feat in just 108 days.

Why it matters

Wilcox's record-breaking ride highlights the incredible physical and mental endurance required to become the fastest human to cycle around the globe. Her achievement pushes the boundaries of what's possible in the world of ultra-endurance sports and inspires others to take on similarly ambitious challenges.

The details

During her 108-day journey, Wilcox traversed remote mountain ranges and crossed 22 different countries, pushing her body to the limit in pursuit of the global cycling record. The 35-year-old cyclist is known for her meticulous preparation and focus on efficiency, factors that were critical to her success in completing the circumnavigation in such a short timeframe.

  • Wilcox began her around-the-world cycling attempt on May 25, 2024.
  • She returned to Chicago on September 11, 2024, after 108 days on the road.

The players

Lael Wilcox

A 35-year-old endurance cyclist who holds the women's record for the fastest circumnavigation of the globe by bicycle.

Mark Beaumont

The current holder of the men's record for the fastest circumnavigation of the globe by bicycle.

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What they’re saying

“This is the most ambitious thing in my life, by far, so I've become obsessed with efficiency.”

— Lael Wilcox, Cyclist

What’s next

Wilcox is now considering attempting to break the overall record held by British cyclist Mark Beaumont, who circumnavigated the globe in 78 days in 2017.

The takeaway

Lael Wilcox's record-breaking around-the-world cycling journey demonstrates the incredible physical and mental fortitude required to push the boundaries of human endurance sports. Her achievement inspires others to take on similarly ambitious challenges and highlights the power of meticulous preparation and a relentless focus on efficiency.