Eddie McGourley, an 83-year-old cyclist from Houghton-le-Spring in the North East, has set a new Guinness World Record as the fastest octogenarian to cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats. He completed the 1,000-mile journey in 11 days, three days faster than the previous record of 14 days.
McGourley crossed the finish line at John O'Groats on the morning of July 9, 2026, accompanied by his friend Stephen Foster, 71. The pair had set off on June 29. McGourley said: "To finish the ride and know I've broken the record is an incredible feeling. There were some tough days along the way, but I was determined to keep going."
Fundraising for St Cuthbert's Hospice
McGourley undertook the challenge not only for the record but also to raise funds for St Cuthbert's Hospice, where his late wife Winifred spent her final days. So far, he and Foster have raised over £10,000 for the charity. McGourley said: "This challenge was always about more than the record. I wanted to do something special for St Cuthbert’s Hospice because of everything they did for my wife and for our family. The support we've received throughout the journey has been overwhelming, and I'm grateful to everyone who has donated and cheered us on."
Recognition from the hospice
Alex Lloyd of St Cuthbert's Hospice said: "We are absolutely thrilled for Eddie. To become a world record holder at 83 years old is a phenomenal achievement and one that deserves enormous recognition. What makes this accomplishment even more special is the reason behind it. Eddie has turned a deeply personal experience into something incredibly positive, helping to raise vital funds and awareness for St Cuthbert’s Hospice. Everyone at the hospice is immensely proud of what he has achieved and grateful for his support."
A lifetime of cycling
McGourley has been cycling most of his life, joining the Houghton Cycle Club in 1956. He was crowned King of the Mountains in the 14-day Milk Race in 1970, the forerunner to the present-day Tour of Britain. Donations for his fundraising effort remain open.
