Shattering records in prolonged cycling sprees, Dubai resident Paula Ralph recently declared a bold target. With spirited hopes, the 47-year-old British rider made plans to embark on a groundbreaking 14,000-mile journey. Aiming to set a new record for completion time, this ambitious tour will kick off on February 4, spanning from Cape Point in South Africa. 

With Ralph’s cycling aspirations set on reaching Nordkapp in Norway, she planned to cover the challenging routes within an impressive 82 days. While the tour included 19 countries, Ralph claimed her venture has been under fours-long-years in making. Fueled by both her personal zest and a mission to inspire women globally, the courageous cyclist urged for triumphant pedals ahead. 

Cycling enthusiast maps routes for days-long trip 

Unfolding in her meticulous cycling preparation, Ralph propelled herself with intensive physical training and mental conditioning. With advanced strategies to tackle the challenging Dubai summer heat, she noted rising daily at 3 a.m. Hitting the road by 4 a.m., she further navigated the city’s sporting community, labeling them as a lovable band of crazy people. 

While the support of her cycling colleagues became instrumental in prompting her toward this ambitious goal, Ralph’s determination also knew no bounds. Besides not solely focusing on breaking records, she also aimed to raise awareness about mental health. Advocating for underprivileged children’s education, the seasoned rider crafted landmarks on versatile tracks. 

Adapting to global cycling circumstances, Ralph adjusted her planned route due to Covid-19 pandemic, followed by the consequences of the Russia-Ukraine war. In a modified course spanning 19 countries, she changed her initial plan from Cape Town to Magadan, Russia. Finding inspiration from fellow sportsman Jonas Deichmann, the saddleback enthusiast shared details from her trip. 

Saddleback expert defies odds in extensive venture

With candid takes on her social media, the cycling expert envisioned inviting followers to witness her progress. While hoping for them to experience and join in overcoming challenges together, her plans marked the essence of united efforts. In a separate but grand endeavor, Ralph recalled her previous attempt also turning fruitful. 

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Settling her cycling goal of under 100 days, she was seen announcing her wish to become the first female to ride from Cape Point to North Cape. With vivid preparations, Ralph showcased a blend of strength and conditioning training. While these moves effectively built up her physical strength, it also garnered support from Dubai’s sporting community.

Aptly naming her cycling escapade the ‘Long Ride’ C2C, Ralph gained effective aid from her sponsors. With a nutrition plan as rigorous as her training regimen, she mentioned owning a snack pack on the bike that provided essential sustenance for the journey. Having shed 10kg during her training, she also expected to burn between 700 to 1,500 calories a day.

Earning the support of a British cycling group that stayed 100 kilometers with her, Paula Ralph underscored the camaraderie within the sport’s community. While collaborating with the Kwano Foundation in South Africa, she even aspired to establish a foundation for disadvantaged children. Setting off on this monumental adventure, her broader vision extended beyond the trip’s global routes. 

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