On January 18, 2025, Lachlan Morton, a renowned Australian ultra-endurance cyclist, achieved an impressive milestone by covering the 648 km distance from Auckland to Wellington in less than a day. Starting his journey at 4:09 a.m., Morton completed the challenge in 18 hours and 28 minutes, surpassing the previous record by more than an hour and a half. This achievement was not only a physical challenge but also a way to honor Brian Fleck, who set the original record in 1983. Fleck, a 43-year-old postal worker at the time, had completed the route in 20 hours using a steel bicycle, with intermittent time checks from a support vehicle.
Morton’s motivation for taking on this challenge was not just to break the record but also to celebrate Fleck’s achievement and bring the past into the present. Known for his ultra-cycling accomplishments—such as riding around the perimeter of Australia in 30 days—Morton approached this challenge with a minimalist mindset, replicating the original conditions as closely as possible. His achievement has made a significant impact on the cycling community, highlighting his ability to take on extreme challenges and his dedication to honoring the legacy of pioneering cyclists.
PREPARATION AND EXECUTION
Morton’s preparation for this challenge began months earlier when he first learned about Brian Fleck’s story from a New Zealand friend. Intrigued by Fleck’s feat, Morton decided to take on the challenge to honor his legacy. Although Fleck’s original record had been surpassed by Brian Lambert a year later, Fleck’s story remained an inspiration to many cyclists. Morton met with Fleck before the challenge to get advice and gain a deeper understanding of the route. During the ride, Morton faced tough conditions, especially as headwinds intensified over the last 200 km. However, his determination and the support of his team helped him overcome these obstacles and achieve his goal.
Morton’s accomplishment has had a major impact on the cycling community, showcasing his ability to tackle extreme challenges and his commitment to honoring the legacy of pioneering cyclists like Brian Fleck. This success also marks the beginning of an intense season for Morton, who plans to compete in several races around the world, exploring new challenges and cultural experiences. With his recent victory in New Zealand, Morton has proven that he is ready to take on any challenge in his ultra-endurance cycling career. His next challenge will be a bikepacking race in Colombia, reflecting his ongoing pursuit of new trials and adventures in the cycling world.
