Beau Monde (Part 2)

Keepin' on truckin' (photo by David Peat)

Read all about Mark’s incredible round-the-world  journey in Part 1 of our exclusive interview, and read on to  find out what it is that inspires the world record-holder.

Despite cycling being a large part of his life to date, Mark has no intentions to limit himself to the one sport.

“I’ve never had any ambitions to cycle as a career in any of the Tours. My main reason for cycling round the world was for the journey which it involved.”

Smashing a world record is the average competitive sportsperson’s dream and is what drives them to push themselves to the limit. Fame and fortune can be a huge driving force, too. With Mark, it couldn’t be further from the truth.

“It wasn’t about beating the next man. The fact there are now three people planning to try to break my record is great. It is what the record is there for and it is not going to make me want to do it again. I am not doing this to be famous; I am living a personal ambition and by doing so it can also be beneficial to other people. It is my hope and ambition not to be pigeon-holed in any one sport. I’d like to try my hand at different challenges.”

Throughout the years Mark has placed a high importance on raising money for various charities while at the same time living out his dream as an ‘adventurer’. A wide range of charities have benefited from his efforts including ‘Save the Children’, ‘Tusk Trust’ and ‘Community Action Nepal’ (C.A.N).

Whilst glory is bestowed on Mark for his amazing achievements, he is quick to acknowledge the invaluable support of the ‘team’ behind him including a physio, masseuse, nutritionist, sports doctor and others. Most important of these is his Mother, Una, who he describes as his ‘first point of contact’ and ‘base camp’ during the world cycle, who has been an ever present influence since the days when he first dreamt of a career as an adventurer.

This ‘adventurer’ is truly unique and his achievements will take some beating. Lance Armstrong entitled his autobiography, ‘It’s Not About the Bike’. This phrase could not be more applicable to Mark Beaumont’s philosophy. His refreshing enthusiasm and drive will serve as an inspiration to many who try to emulate his success.

Words by Myles Edwards