OLYMPIC gold medal winner and Lancaster's cycling hero Jason Queally is attempting to get into the record books by breaking the land speed record for human-powered vehicles.
Queally's vehicle will be the Blueyonder Challenger, a futuristic looking bicycle designed by Chris Field, the designer of the bike Queally used to win his gold medal at Sydney last year. Field says this record is particularly interesting because of the mix of technology and athletics, "There aren't many disciplines in sport that have that combination" he said. Made by Reynard Motorsport, a racing car manufacturer, the unusual vehicle has it's rider sat in an enclosed cockpit. The bike weighs precisely 12kgs, is one metre in height and is 58cm wide - the precise width of the rider's shoulders. If everything goes well, Field believes the amazing bike could reach speeds of 89mph.
The rider of the vehicle, Queally is hoping to beat the current record, 72.35mph which is held by Canadian Sam Whittingham. "It's amazing anyone can do 70mph on a bicycle" said Queally who is now hoping to reach 80mph. "It is scary when I think of the speeds I'm aiming for but I'm confident." Queally has been working hard using a wooden replica of his futuristic bike to help him train at his garage in Manchester.
"It's a record which I have always wanted to tackle and with the Blueyonder Challenger I have the best opportunity ever to break it now."
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