Halifax cyclist eyes record-setting ride from Alaska to Argentina

The Pan-American Highway is a challenging route that spans across the Americas, from the northernmost point in Alaska to the southernmost point in Argentina. For Ashleigh Myles, a Halifax-based bike technician and endurance cyclist, this route presents the ultimate challenge and opportunity to set a new record.

Myles is no stranger to long hours in the saddle. She co-created the Tip 2 Tip Nova Scotia endurance race, a 1,000-kilometre haul from Cape Sable Island to Meat Cove, and set the record for its time-trial variant—a 750-kilometre straight shot without any support vehicles, food drops or resupplies. Her love for bicycle travel was sparked during a trip to Europe in 2016, and since then, she has been pushing her limits and setting new records.

Her next goal is to become the fastest woman to travel the entire Pan-American Highway by bicycle, alone and without any support. This near-23,000-kilometre journey will take her through 14 countries and present her with various challenges, from bitter cold tundras to sweltering tropical heat. Myles plans to complete the trek in 95 days, riding roughly 250 kilometres each day.

To qualify for the record, Myles must forgo any offers of assistance along the route. She will carry everything she needs for her journey, including a bivy sack for sleeping, clothes, food, and bike repair tools. Her bike is expected to weigh around 40 pounds when fully loaded, and she plans to camp whenever possible to avoid the hassle of checking in and out of hotels.

Myles’ decision to take on this challenge was inspired by her desire to push herself further and set a record that would be hard to break. She believes that with determination and perseverance, she can achieve her goal and become the fastest woman to cycle the Pan-American Highway.

Despite the financial costs associated with such a journey, Myles has been actively seeking sponsors to help cover expenses. The support she has received from both corporate sponsors and individuals has been overwhelming, and she is grateful for the opportunity to pursue her dream.

As Myles prepares to embark on this epic journey, she remains focused and determined to overcome any obstacles that come her way. With the support of her community and her unwavering passion for cycling, she is ready to take on the challenge of a lifetime and make history as the fastest woman to travel the Pan-American Highway by bicycle.