Australian cyclist Lachlan “Lachy” Morton, 32, just broke one of the more difficult records in long-distance biking. He circumnavigated Australia in 30 days, 9 hours, and 59 minutes, completing the ride on October 5 at 1:54 p.m. local time. He averaged an astonishing 279 miles per day to log a new Fastest Known Time for a route known simply as “The Lap.”
Morton is no stranger to extreme ultradistance cycling events. He famously completed the “Alt Tour” in 2021, riding the entire Tour de France course, including all the motorized transfers, unsupported, and beating the pro peloton to Paris.
In his new FKT, the former WorldTour pro broke a 13-year-old record of 37 days, 20 hours, 42 minutes for Around Australia set by Dave Alley.
‘The Lap’ FKT Standards
According to the Road Record Association of Australia (RRAA), cyclists must complete at least 8,823.5 miles to earn an FKT for “The Lap.” Additionally, the rider must pass through at least six of these cities: Adelaide, Brisbane, Broome, Darwin, Esperance, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney.
Morton began and ended his quest in his hometown of Port Macquarie, New South Wales. To make the most of prevailing winds, his route circled the “Great Southern Country” counterclockwise. He planned on starting most days around midnight to avoid the heat and riding until 5 or 6 p.m.
Unlike his other solo record attempts, this time, he had a support crew. This team included his wife, Rachel Peck, and his brother and former pro cyclist, Angus Morton. His childhood coach, Tom Hopper, and friends Karter Machen and Athalee Brown were also along for support.
