Ultra-Distance Cycling Journey

From weekend warrior to competing in the world's toughest ultra-distance races. Discover how cycling across continents shaped my approach to business, mental resilience, and achieving the seemingly impossible.

Martin Cox ultra-distance cycling across American landscapes during Trans America race
Trans America bike race preparation and endurance training setup
2010

Trans America Bike Race

Completed

4,200km
Distance

Coast-to-coast across America, one of the world's toughest self-supported ultra-distance races.

2012

Race Across America (RAAM)

Top 10 Finish

4,800km
Distance

Non-stop race from west to east coast, testing mental and physical endurance to the limit.

2014

Transcontinental Race

Completed

4,000km
Distance

Self-supported race across Europe, navigating through multiple countries and challenging terrain.

2016

Tour Divide

Finished

4,400km
Distance

Mountain bike race following the Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico.

From Road to Boardroom

Every mile ridden, every mountain climbed, every mental barrier broken taught lessons that directly translate to building and scaling successful businesses.

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Goal Setting

On the Bike:

Breaking massive challenges into manageable stages

In Business:

Applied to building businesses step-by-step with clear milestones

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Mental Resilience

On the Bike:

Pushing through when everything says quit

In Business:

Persevering through business setbacks and market challenges

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Resource Management

On the Bike:

Optimising energy, nutrition, and equipment efficiency

In Business:

Managing cash flow, team resources, and operational efficiency

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Strategic Planning

On the Bike:

Route planning, weather analysis, and risk assessment

In Business:

Market analysis, competitive strategy, and business planning

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Performance Under Pressure

On the Bike:

Making critical decisions when exhausted and stressed

In Business:

Leading teams and making tough calls during business crises

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Community & Support

On the Bike:

Building relationships within the ultra-cycling community

In Business:

Networking, partnerships, and building strong business relationships

Race Setup & Strategy

Success in ultra-distance racing comes down to meticulous preparation, equipment optimization, and strategic thinking - much like building a business.

Bike:Custom titanium endurance frame
Wheels:Lightweight carbon with puncture-resistant tires
Navigation:GPS with backup paper maps
Nutrition:Carefully calculated calorie and electrolyte strategy
Sleep:Minimal gear for 2-3 hour power naps
Weather:Layered system for all conditions

Training Philosophy

Consistency Over Intensity

Regular, sustainable training builds the aerobic base needed for ultra-distance events.

Mental Training

Practicing decision-making under fatigue and developing psychological resilience.

Adaptation & Recovery

Listening to the body and allowing proper recovery to prevent burnout and injury.

Efficiency Focus

Optimising every aspect from pedalling technique to nutrition timing for maximum performance.

🚴 Current Status

While my competitive racing days are focused on business building, I still ride regularly for fitness, mental clarity, and the pure joy of being on two wheels. The lessons learned continue to fuel my entrepreneurial journey.

The Cycling Community

Ultra-distance cycling introduced me to an incredible community of athletes, dreamers, and achievers. The friendships forged on long rides and at finish lines have enriched both my personal life and business network.

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Global Network

Connections across continents through shared challenges

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Mutual Support

Learning from and supporting fellow ultra-distance athletes

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Shared Achievement

Celebrating victories and learning from setbacks together