Couple aiming to break world cycle ride record

A couple from Derby are aiming to become the fastest pair to circumnavigate the world by bike.

Amy and Kyle Hudson, both 30, will set off from their home in Mickleover on Friday and plan to cycle 18,000 miles (28,968km) in 150 to 180 days, which is under the current world record of 205 days.

Riding fully self‑supported and carrying their own equipment, they will face about 470,435ft (143,388m) of climbing and average 136 miles (220km) of distance a day, all while aiming to raise over £50,000 for mental health charities.

The route will take them across Europe, Asia, Oceania and North America, before returning to the UK between late September and mid-October.

Amy and Kyle have credited cycling as a transformative hobby in their lives.

Amy has previously struggled with an eating disorder and mental health challenges, while Kyle overcame a difficult upbringing that included periods of homelessness, before finding direction through cycling and supporting Amy on her own journey.

"This challenge is about more than just breaking a record," said Amy.

"Cycling has saved my life, and we want to use this platform to inspire others and raise awareness for mental health."

Amy completed her own version of the Tour de France last year and will transfer what she learnt from that challenge around the globe.

"Last year's Tour de France challenge pushed me hard, but this is going to be about finding the limit of what is possible," she said.

Kyle said the challenge would test the pair mentally, both individually and as a couple.

"We'll be drawing on everything we've been through and leaning on our resilience together," added Kyle.

"There will be tough moments, no doubt, but that's exactly where we do our best."

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