Speed demon: Queally turns on the power during the 2000 Sydney Olympics ©Doug Pensinger/ALLSPORT

In October this year, British Olympic cycling gold medallist Jason Queally will attempt to become the fastest man on Earth under his own power.

 

The Fastest Man On Earth?

He will endeavor to ride a futuristic-looking human powered vehicle (HPV) faster than the existing record of 117.1kph/72.74mph, with that mark belonging to Canadian Sam Whittingham.

Queally says he was approached after the Olympics and asked if he wanted to try breaking the land speed record in a HPV.

"It’s just something new really. After the Olympics, it was ‘where do I go from here?’ My goals were really for Athens [2004 Olympics], but somehow I managed to get a gold medal in Sydney, putting a different perspective on things," he says.

Queally has no illusions about the scale of the task he is taking on. One of the main problems he will have to overcome is adjusting to the recumbent position which is used for HPVs.

I think it will be very difficult. I’ve only got four months to adapt to the recumbent position," he says.

"I don’t think it’s going to be a simple case of because I’m a good normal bike rider, I can hop into this different position and be successful.

 

	Looking ahead: Futuristic cycle ©Chris Field

""It’s going to take a lot of hard work and dedication. This is one of the reasons why I’ve given up riding on track for this year, so I can focus solely on this event."

Queally also has some serious competition on his hands. German World Sprint champion Jan van Eijden is planning an attempt soon.

In addition, current holder Whittingham and experienced American HPV rider Matt Weaver have also stated their willingness to have a crack at the record, setting up the mouthwatering possibility of them all going head to head at the same location later in the year.

"There are numerous other teams who will be attempting to break the record, so it’s not just a case of me and van Eijden," Queally says.

"I think the record will be broken, but whether by me, Jan or by somebody else, I don’t really know."

However, Queally does know he will be riding one of the most advanced vehicles on two wheels. The Blueyonder Challenger, as it has been named, is being built by motor vehicle manufacturer Reynard, which also constructs Formula One cars for the BAR team.

Queally says: "I had a look at it and I was just taken aback. I thought it was a fantastic vehicle. To me, it looks like a torpedo on wheels. The aerodynamics are critical, as it is a combination of aerodynamics and power which will give you the end result."

 

Glorious gold: Queally celebrates ©Mike Powell/ALLSPORT

For Queally, it is all part of the rollercoaster ride he has been riding since last year’s Sydney Olympics.

He said: "It’s bizarre. People ask what it feels like to win a gold medal. To me, it hasn’t changed me in any way.

"I’m just the same person who has got this chunk of metal. Maybe being the fastest man on Earth will [change me]. Until I’m actually successful, I won’t know.

"To be known as the fastest human being on the planet, propelled under his own steam, is an amazing thing. I just hope I will be successful. It’s going to be pretty tough, but I’m always up for a challenge."

NOW Sport would like to thank Paul Gracey for his contribution of video footage for this feature.

- Ash Potterton