A British cyclist has smashed the Guinness World Record for the fastest circumnavigation of the planet on a bicycle, riding 29,000km in 79 days.
Inspired by Jules Verne's novel Around The World In Eighty Days Mark Beaumont cycled for 18 hours a day after beginning his journey in Paris in July, cycling through Europe, Russia, Mongolia and China.
The circuit Mark Beaumonth cycled to complete his epic journey. Photo: BBC
He then cycled across Australia, through New Zealand and across North America before the final "sprint finish" thorough Portugal, Spain and France.
Beaumont set a new world record of 194 days in 2008.
Since then it has been broken by other riders, with the previous record set at 123 days.
On completing the expedition, the Edinburgh-based cyclist, said "this has been, without doubt, the most punishing challenge I have ever put my body and mind through. The physical and mental stamina required for each day was a challenge in itself, but I had an amazing support team around me.
"The success of cycling around the world in 80 days shows that what seemed impossible is possible and has redefined the limits of endurance sport.
Cyclist Mark Beaumonth on the final leg of his record breaking ride. Photo: Supplied
"Each stage brought different challenges including different climates, which I had to adjust to quickly.
During the trip the cyclist was exposed to sub-zero temperatures in the southern hemisphere and smog from forest fires in North America.
He had two falls - one of them in Russia requiring emergency dental treatment from his back-up team - but otherwise everything went to plan.
"Physically, of course, I'm incredibly sore but what you learn very quickly is there's a big difference between hurting and being injured. I'm not injured, although it will take time for the body to recover.
"For one thing, I think I'd struggle to walk up and down a flight of steps at the moment because I've not really walked since 2 July."
A crowd of well-wishers was waiting for the cyclist as he pedalled up to the Arc de Triomphe, completing the final leg.
The adventurer is raising funds for Orkidstudio, which works to benefit communities worldwide through innovative architecture and construction.
-BBC
