A British cyclist, who had his bike stolen in North Queensland, believes he may have claimed the title of the youngest person to cycle around the world solo.
The world record attempt is yet to be officially verified.
Key points:
- Charlie Condell has become the youngest person to cycle solo around the world at the age of 18
- He cycled 30,000-km in 248 days
- He traversed 20 countries in Europe, Asia, North America and Australia
- His bike was stolen from a Townsville hostel in October 2018
Charlie Condell’s world record attempt veered off track in October when his bike, affectionately known as Colin, was taken from a Townsville backpackers’ hostel.
The remainder of the journey continued without a hitch — well, almost.
“The airport did manage to leave my bike on the Atlantic flight but I got it back the same day,” he said.
Despite the difficulties in Australia, it has not changed his opinion of the country.
“I loved Australia absolutely — great place,” Mr Condell said.
“It was definitely hot, definitely big, but I’ll be returning sometime in the future that’s for sure, but maybe I’ll get myself a working visa next time.”
An epic journey
The 18-year-old took 249 days to complete the 30,000-kilometre journey through 20 countries.
“I’ve been cycling since mid January through America, flew back into Europe at the beginning of March and cracked on home,” he said.
The previous record is thought to be held by Tom Davies, a 19-year-old British man who finished the journey in about six months.
Mr Condell said changes in temperature really pushed him to the limit.
“It was bitter in America I’ll tell you that much,” he said.
“It was minus 10 at the Grand Canyon so I certainly wasn’t prepared for it, it was quite a shock to the system.”
But the teenager said it was all worth it for the welcome home he received in Bristol.
“All my family was there, my friends, it was a beautiful day as well,” he said.
Mr Condell will start studying mechanical engineering at Swansea University in September.
“That gives me half a year now to earn some money and go adventuring again,” he said.
And he does not plan on slowing down anytime soon.
“There’s still Africa, South America, Russia, North Asia, the world is a very big place,” Mr Condell said.
Topics: awards-and-prizes, cycling, crime, townsville-4810, australia, england
