New world record for cyclist hurt in crash
Josh raises funds forTexas clinic which saved him
A Livingston cyclist who escaped death last year after being hit by a car has set a new world record.
Josh Quigley, who was cycling around the world when he was hit at 70mph by a car in Texas, has set the new record for the fastest time to complete the North Coast 500.
Josh took 31 hours 19 minutes and eight seconds to ride the 516-mile route across the Highlands – over four minutes faster than the previous record set by former professional cyclist James McCallum.
Josh’s world record attempt started at Inverness Castle at 5 am on Saturday, September 19, before cycling non-stop. He consumed all his food and drink while on the bike and went without sleep for the duration.
And Josh is using the feat to raise money for the Baylor Scott & White Medical Centre in Temple, Texas, where he received life-saving treatment and rehabilitation following the crash.
Josh suffered a traumatic brain injury, fractured skull, seven broken ribs, punctured lung and multiple fractures to his back and legs but was remarkably back on his bike just 11 weeks later.
Initially his goal for 2020 was to return to Texas and complete his around-the-world cycle but the Covid-19 pandemic meant that wasn’t possible.
It led to him seeking challenges closer to home before settling on the North Coast 500 record bid.
After his mammoth cycle, he said: “I’m not really sure what to say, I feel totally lost for words and struggling to get my head around it.
“Four years ago I started cycling because I was depressed and looking for something that would help me turn my life around.
“I never in a million years thought I would then go and set a new world record.
“Thank you to the hundreds of people who were lining the streets all the way around the route and back at Inverness Castle. Their support and encouragement helped me dig deeper than I’ve ever dug before.”
Josh’s world record attempt sponsors were Sterosport Activ by Steroplast, manufacturers of specialist Bike First Aid kits.
Adam Brown, Steroplast Healthcare managing director, praised Josh’s efforts, saying: “When I first met Josh, I knew instantly he could achieve anything he put his mind to.
“His story of setback to comeback is truly inspirational and makes Josh the perfect ambassador for our new range of Sterosport Activ specialist bike first aid kits.
“We’re delighted to play a part in supporting Josh in his North Coast 500 World Record Attempt.”
● To support Josh’s fundraising initiative visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/north-coast500-world-record.