Hopefully Chris does better than this on the ride (and his Brother Glen offers more support)
Chris Marris is a 25 year old who lives in Bentley, Western Australia, and works as the Marketing and Communications Manager at the Western Australian Farmers Federation. Along with his world record breaking attempt, he is helping plan his wedding with his partner Michelle, scheduled for late September 2010.
Chris after winning the State titles in Northam in 2003.
As a former BMX State Champion and coach, Chris enjoys cycling (although can’t say the same for lycra). He has previously cycled twice from Adelaide (South Australia) to Perth (Western Australia). The first time was with friend, Dale Reynolds,when they both rode unsupported on standard BMX bikes (20” wheels, no gears), each pulling a trailer. The ride took 5 weeks to complete and raised money for the Asthma Foundation of WA.
The second ride was with another friend, Kyle Martin, but was this time on road bicycles, with a support car. This ride was done in 13.5 days.
As part of his current training, Chris is cycling 500+ KM a week, along with doing a number of RPM and SPIN classes at LeisureLife.
Fun facts:
–Longest distances cycled in 24hours – 623.2km.
–Longest distances jumped (on a BMX) – between 9 and 10 meters.
–Has a dislike of lycra.
Go Chris!! after such a busy september, you should relax in October… maybe somewhere overseas, like say Bali!!
I notice there is mention to Chris breaking Richard Vollebregt’s Across Australia Record of 8d 11h 12m. My memory is that this record has been bettered on at least two occassions. I think the record now stands at 7d 8h 49m set by Gerhard Gulewicz in 2007. (I once kept very detailed records of all Australian distance cycling records but my record keeping has not been kept up to date in recent years.) There is an interesting discussion page on the across Australia record at http://www.bicycles.net.au/forums/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=20565
Rod Evans
Former Holder – Around Australia and World 24 hr and 1000kms.
Hi Rod
Thanks for the message and info. I have seen the page you mention and am aware of some of the attempts that have being made and the times claimed. My attempt is at the Guinness World Record for the ‘Fastest time to cycle trans-Australia from Perth to Sydney (male)’.
As you know doubt did yourself with your attempts, I have been in close and frequent communications with Guinness World Records re the current record and within the last month have had it confirmed that Richard’s still stands. I guess this means that all other attempts are unofficial (for what ever reason). As part of my attempt, I obviously plan to do everything requested by GWR in terms of verification, route, etc. to ensure that my attempt qualifies.
Still I am very aware of these unofficial attempts and am keeping them in mind.
Thanks again for taking the time to share your info. Do you have a site detailing the ride’s you’ve done?
Chris
I bet you secretly love lycra…..
Hi Chris,
All the best with your ride. I rode “Oppy’s” route from Perth GPO to Adelaide GPO to Melbourne GPO to Sydney GPO in 1999 in 13 days. Encountered safety issues with the truckies after 8pm so decided to leave the highway each night, 4hrs earlier then planned. My support crew were in constant communication via “truckie radio” to ensure my safety even during the daylight hours. That was the main down side of my ride. There were certainly more positive experiences than negative. I actually did not get any punctures and only wore out one rear tyre!, even though l was constantly riding over debris on the road shoulders. I also followed the Guiness Record guidelines. Happy to chat if you need.
Helen