Spencer intends to raise funds for the Lupus Foundation and also aims to break the Guinness World Record.
It all began back in 2009 when British cyclist Paul Spencer made a bet with a friend that he could cross Britain on a bicycle in less than a week — and he won the bet, taking just 4 days for the journey.
The success inspired Paul to undertake other equally epic cycling trips across Europe, North America, and Africa. Now, he is set for a round-the-world journey (excluding Australia and Antarctica).
During the trip, Spencer intends to raise funds for the Lupus Foundation and also aims to break the Guinness World Record for the fastest circumnavigation by bicycle — a feat that currently stands at 5 years and 11 days, with his goal being just three years.
However, there is one unique aspect — he will be crossing the ocean not on a bicycle, but on a pedal-powered trimaran. This vessel, named Tasman Rower, is 11.6 meters long and constructed from hydrocarbon fabric, designed by the New Zealand company LOMOcean Marine Ltd in 2012 and built by Pachoud Yachts.
According to LOMOcean director Craig Lumsom, pedaling is significantly more efficient than rowing, as rowing involves a back-and-forth motion, while pedaling is a continuous closed cycle.
In addition to the pedal drive, the vessel is equipped with side panels for enclosing the rear cabin, a lifting/lowering bow to stabilize the trimaran, solar panels, a communication mast, a satellite communication and navigation system, a special reclining seat for pedaling, and a separate lifeboat.
Overall, Paul Spencer will need to cover more than 80,467 kilometers, of which 16,093 kilometers will be on pedals. The start of the transcontinental cycling race is scheduled for early 2027 from the state of Colorado. Currently, Paul is busy raising funds for his fantastic journey.
