Daring duo in bid for round-the-world record on a tandem

Two young men are attempting a world first - by cycling 18,000 miles round the world on a tandem.
John Whybrow and George Agate getting in some practice before attempting a world record to circumnavigate the globe by tandem SUS-160113-130430001John Whybrow and George Agate getting in some practice before attempting a world record to circumnavigate the globe by tandem SUS-160113-130430001
John Whybrow and George Agate getting in some practice before attempting a world record to circumnavigate the globe by tandem SUS-160113-130430001

George Agate, from Pulborough, and pal John Whybrow, are aiming for an entry in the Guinness Book of Records by becoming the first ever team to circumnavigate the globe by tandem bicycle.

The pair, who met while studying at the University of Kent, have spent a year planning the mammoth trip through 28 countries and plan to set off in June.

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“The ride is going to be riddled with challenges, both physically and mentally, but overcoming these will be a great achievement,” said George.

Their route around the world - which they expect will take eight months to complete - has been meticulously planned, taking them across mainland Europe into Turkey, through parts of northern Iran, into India, Bangkok,Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Mexico, through Central America to Columbia, Morocco and then into Gibraltar and Spain, and a final sprint up the length of France back to the UK.

“We want to be thefirst people to do it,” said George. And he admitted: “My parents were quite apprehensive at first but they are very supportive. My mum has been organising for us to go on a first aid course.”

The duo estimate the world record attempt will cost them around £26,000. A number of companies have offered sponsorship but George and John hope that more will come forward. They also hope the can raise sponsorship for charity along the way.

Visit www.thetandemmen.com