Lael Wilcox targets Pan-American Highway cycling record

Ultra-endurance cyclist Lael Wilcox has announced her next major challenge: attempting a record-breaking ride along the Pan-American Highway. Following a failed attempt to break the around-the-world cycling record this summer, Wilcox plans to ride from Alaska to Argentina in 2027.

Wilcox aims to pursue a Fastest Known Time (FKT) for the route, which spans approximately 13,900 miles (22,400 km) from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, to Ushuaia, Argentina. She intends to begin the journey in August or September of next year, though specific dates and the exact route are yet to be finalized.

The announcement follows a disappointing setback in June when Wilcox had to abandon her around-the-world attempt from Chicago after only 14 days. She cited nausea, vomiting, and heat exhaustion caused by a severe European heatwave as the reasons for her withdrawal.