‘Either you master your disability or it masters you’: Kiwi cyclist takes on world solo at 65

By Shilpy Arora Gaikwad

At 65, Christopher Bennett is proving that age and disability are not barriers to achieving the extraordinary. The Nelson man is currently halfway through a 29,000km journey that began in Helsinki, Finland, and has taken him across continents — through Australia, Central Asia, China, and now North America. This incredible endeavor is not just a test of endurance, but a powerful statement about resilience, determination, and the human spirit.

Bennett’s journey, however, was not without its challenges. In 2018, he suffered a severe brain injury during a cycling accident while participating in the Tour Aotearoa. The incident left him with a facial reconstruction and a diagnosis of post-concussion syndrome. Despite this, Bennett refused to let his injury define him. Instead, he used it as motivation to push beyond his limits and redefine what it means to live a full and active life.

Following the accident, Bennett experienced a range of symptoms, including persistent headaches, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. However, rather than succumbing to despair, he turned to triathlons and completed Ironman events on multiple continents. His passion for cycling eventually led him to take on one of the most ambitious challenges of his life — circumnavigating the globe on a bicycle.

According to Guinness World Records, the requirements for cycling around the world are straightforward but demanding: the cyclist must travel 29,000 kilometers in one direction and pass through two antipodal points. Bennett’s journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to this goal, and he is now on track to achieve it.

Despite the physical and mental toll of his journey, Bennett remains steadfast in his mission. He has faced extreme weather conditions, navigated through remote and often dangerous terrains, and battled fatigue and pain. Yet, he continues to push forward, driven by the belief that no challenge is too great to overcome.

Bennett’s journey is not only about breaking records; it is also about inspiring others. He has become a beacon of hope for people with disabilities, showing that determination and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements. His message is simple yet powerful: “Either you master your disability or it masters you.”

As Bennett continues his journey through North America, he is now closer than ever to achieving his dream of circumnavigating the globe. His story is a reminder that no matter how difficult the road may seem, with courage, grit, and an unyielding spirit, anything is possible.

Bennett’s journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of never giving up. His story is one of inspiration, resilience, and the unbreakable will to achieve the impossible.