One of Mackay’s best has joined up with riders from Sydney and New Zealand and pedalled their way into history, reclaiming the Guinness World Record for the Longest Static Cycle Class in an awe-inspiring 33-hour endurance challenge.
Fuelled by determination and a powerful cause, these dedicated riders pushed their limits to support Chronic Pain Australia, helping fund structured physical activity and nutrition programs for children and teenagers facing physical, mental, and emotional challenges.
Among the dedicated riders was Aram Drake, who endured the full 33-hour cycle alongside his teammates.
“We had a great support base and going into those final hours, we were pumped,” Aram said.
“It was tough, but the support in the room kept us going.”
The team had previously held the record before losing it to a Dubai-based group, which extended the time to 31.5 hours. Determined to bring the title back to Australia, they trained rigorously for up to eight months, building endurance through high-intensity sessions and long-distance rides.
Michelle Bruce from Tune Up Performance Nutrition, a sports dietitian, played a crucial role in the team’s success, managing hydration and meal plans.
“We had a really good team, including Michelle, who looked after the meal and hydration plan, ensuring we had two drink bottles – one with electrolytes, magnesium, and salts, and the other with water to keep us properly hydrated.”
Event organiser and lead instructor Mark Brinker was also praised for his commitment, especially given his own battle with chronic pain.
“For him to push through 33 hours as an instructor is an incredible effort,” Aram said.
The emotional moment of reclaiming the record at the 31.5-hour mark was short-lived, as the team had to keep pedalling until the full 33-hour goal was achieved.
“The relief hit us all at once, but at the same time, we knew we had to keep going,” Aram recalled.
“It was an incredible achievement for all of us.”
Despite the exhaustion, Aussie riders have already hinted that if the record is ever challenged again, they’d be ready to defend it.
“The moment we hopped off, we all swore we'd never do it again…But if the record slips away, there's no doubt – we’d be back to bring it home again.”
Mackay cyclists reclaimed the Guinness World Record for the Longest Static Cycle Class, powering through 33 hours of endurance to raise funds for Chronic Pain Australia. Photos supplied
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