Woman who lost ability to walk breaks cycle record

A West Country cyclist who lost her ability to walk as a teenager after being diagnosed with a debilitating illness has broken the world record for cycling the length of the UK and back.

- Lynn Rusk

Sarah Ruggins, a Canadian wealth manager living in Gloucestershire, cycled 1,677 miles from John O’Groats to Land's End and back again in five days 11 hours and 14 minutes.

The 37-year-old, who started cycling only two and a half years ago, covered 310 miles a day, surviving on just over four hours of sleep each day throughout the entire challenge.

Ms Ruggins’ astounding cycle has beaten the men’s record of five days 18 hours three minutes, held by James MacDonald since 2017 - by six hours and 43 minutes. She has also beaten the former women’s record of 10 days and five hours - held by Louise Harris since 2023 - by four days 17 hours and 40 minutes.

“This ride was a celebration of life and it was a gift to myself and hopefully a gift to others who need motivation,” Ms Ruggins said.