American cyclist Lael Wilcox rode around the world in 108 days, 12 hours and 12 minutes in 2024, finishing in Chicago. The ride earned the women’s Guinness record for circumnavigation by standard bicycle. It is one striking milestone in her career.
Her work also includes the Tucson GRIT mentoring programme. Over six weeks, schoolgirls gradually prepare for an overnight cycling trip; after completing the programme, they keep their bicycles. Participants also have local mentors.
The podcast Lael Sleeps Around the World offers another view of daily life. Growing out of evening recordings during the world ride, it adopts a slower pace intended for rest. The long-distance story makes room for stopping, too.
This portrait is worth reading on two scales: an exceptional individual result and the patient work that helps other people begin riding.