Warrnambool cyclist completes Perth-to-home trek despite brutal conditions
Neil Holland, 66, cycled from Perth to Warrnambool on his first long-distance ride, riding alone for the final 1400km.
Neil Holland did it on 15 minutes of YouTube advice and self-belief: a cycle ride through one of the world's largest deserts, his first long-distance bike ride ever. Neil Holland and friend Carl McMeel rode for more than a month, starting September 1 and ending October 2.
McMeel, an experienced long-distance rider, had to stop at Ceduna with severe saddle soreness, leaving Holland to ride the final 1400km alone. The 66-year-old architect carried about 30 to 35 kilos of gear, food, water, tent, and clothes, riding up to 190km a day depending on wind.
One stretch of 11 and a half hours left him with three punctures and feeling "soul destroying." He finished.
Now he is eyeing Route 66 across the US. "If you can ride from Perth to Ceduna in that desolation you can pretty well do anything," he said.
- 66
- Holland's age
- September 1 to October 2
- Ride dates
- 1400km
- Distance completed alone
- Up to 190km
- Daily distance possible
Why it mattersAn inspiring story about someone undertaking an audacious physical challenge late in life with minimal preparation.
AustraliaAn Australian story showing outdoor adventure and personal resilience across the country's vast interior.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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