Double world record Triumph for 2moroRider
The successful completion of Rhys’ trip, which he made on a Triumph Tiger 800XC, sees him become both the youngest person to circumnavigate the world on a motorbike and the world record holder for the most consecutive capital cities visited on a motorcycle.
The monumental trip culminated at the Houses of Parliament, where he was greeted by Lord Digby Jones, chairman of Triumph Motorcycles, Councillor Susie Burbridge, Deputy Lord Mayor of Westminster, and Taylor Jenkins, a Young Ambassador from The Prince's Trust, his nominated charity.
Starting his journey aged just 22 in May 2014, Rhys has since travelled some of the best and worst roads in the world, tackling extreme temperatures, treacherous terrain and gruelling weather conditions. His trip saw him travel through deserts, mountains and jungle, no mean feat, even on his trusty Tiger 800, aptly named ‘Tigger’. The journey also saw him celebrate two birthdays, turning 23 in China and 24 in Amsterdam.
On his achievements, Rhys commented: “For me, this trip was about inspiring other young people. I wanted to show that it is possible to follow your heart and do something beyond what is expected of us in western society today. Also that if you want something enough and are willing to put in the effort, then even the most daunting of challenges is achievable.”
“I’m extremely proud of what I have achieved over the last 14 months. I couldn’t have done it without the support of sponsors, such as Triumph. I’m grateful I had such an amazing opportunity and I hope that this trip will inspire others into considering motorcycling as a way to explore the world.
“I haven’t had any problems with Tigger and she hasn’t missed a beat in over 56,400 miles - I’m looking forward to planning our next adventure together.”
Rick Cawley, general manager for Triumph UK and Ireland, commented: “At Triumph, we’re committed to encouraging more young people into the world of motorcycling, whether that be through riding our product or by developing the engineering and manufacturing talent of the future through our extensive apprenticeship and graduate schemes. What Rhys has achieved is nothing short of incredible and we’re extremely pleased to have been part of his success story.”
Rhys adds; "There has not only been the help of sponsors, but the hundreds of local people around the world, in
all different countries, who gave a helping hand. Whether it be
giving me and Tigger a safe place to sleep, food in my
mouth, guiding me through the big cities or paying for a tank
of fuel. None of this could have been possible without my
sponsors and without the help of all the people who I have
met along the way."Youth charity, The Prince’s Trust, helps disadvantaged young people to get their lives on track. Many of the young people helped by The Prince’s Trust are in or leaving care, facing issues such as homelessness or mental health problems, or they have been in trouble with the law. Three in four young people supported by The Prince’s Trust move into work, education or training.
“Their goal is to inspire young lives, which fits perfectly with what I'm trying to do,” says Rhys. “So I'm asking people to support my ride by donating just £1 for every continent I cross. The most you'll have to pay is £6, which most people, even young people on low wages, should be able to afford.”
To find out more about Rhys’ journey or to donate to The Prince’s Trust, visit www.2mororider.com.