Alicia Searvogel to attempt Billie Fleming's Year record

Alicia Searvogel, who married her husband Kurt in October last year when he was still three months away from breaking Tommy Godwin’s “unbreakable” Year record, is to attempt the women’s version, currently held by Britain’s Billie Fleming,

Like Kurt, whose 76,076-mile ride ended last month, Alicia, aged 53, will be riding under the rules of the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association’s Highest Annual Mileage Record (HAM’R).

She has a unique perspective on what it takes to attempt the record, having been recruited initially as crew chief to Kurt’s attempt before their relationship blossomed leading to their marriage.

Kurt’s ride was subsequently recognised by Guinness World Records, which previously showed Godwin’s 75,075 miles as the men’s record, while Fleming’s 29,603.7 miles still stands as the women’s version.

> Kurt Searvogel awarded Guinness World Record for distance cycled in a year

Fleming (who at the time went by her maiden name, Dovey) and Godwin both set their records in the late 1930s – hers was in 1938, his in 1939 – at a time when the Year record gripped the public imagination in Britain, with huge press interest.
 

On Friday, Alicia posted a picture to Facebook of her registration form for her attempt on the HAM’R which shows that, like Kurt, she plans to use both standard and recumbent bikes.

In a post to the social network, she said: “I've been active my whole life. Those who know me personally know that I'm not into competing. I'm not a racer, yet I am a decent athlete.

“I've always felt it was more important to others to win. I love cycling and I am drawn to ultra-cycling.

"’A century a day for a year’ is something I've been entertaining for some time. After spending a record breaking year with Kurt and understanding how it can be done, this is my chance. If I can do it, it might as well count, right!”

Nottingham cyclist Kajsa Tylen is also attempting to break Fleming’s record, setting of on 1 January. The Swedish-born cyclist plans to ride an average of around 85 miles a day.

She is targeting a total distance during 2016 of 31,069 miles – which is dead-on 50,000 kilometres – and you can follow her on Strava here.

> Notts rider sets out to beat Billie Fleming Year record