Penny Farthing Enthusiasts Break World Records in London

Riding High: A Day of Unprecedented Penny-Farthing Achievements

A Miniature Marvel: The Smallest Penny-Farthing Record

In a remarkable demonstration of skill and balance, young siblings Flo and Finn Woodward, aged six and seven respectively, claimed world records for riding the smallest penny-farthings. Their bicycles featured front wheels a mere 11.41 inches (29cm) in diameter, marking them as the youngest and most agile record-breakers of the day in their categories.

Big Bertha's Grand Ride: The Largest Penny-Farthing Feat

At the opposite end of the spectrum, Neil Laughton, founder of The Penny Farthing Club, piloted a colossal 100-inch (254cm) penny-farthing known as 'Big Bertha'. This towering machine, which lifted him nine feet off the ground, navigated the urban landscape near Bank Station, offering a breathtaking sight. Laughton humorously expressed relief at completing the challenging ride unscathed, emphasizing the thrill of his unique experience.

Juggling and Unicycling: Records of Dexterity and Balance

The event also saw Henrik Hedström from Sweden establish a new world record for the fastest 100 meters on a penny-farthing while juggling, completing the distance in an impressive 19.87 seconds. Not to be outdone, Roger Davies set a unicycle world record, achieving the fastest 100 meters while blindfolded in 37.31 seconds, showcasing extraordinary balance and determination.

The Spirit of Record-Breaking: A Joyful and Skillful Affair

Guinness World Records adjudicator Juliet Dawson lauded the event as a testament to the joyous, unusual, and highly skillful nature of record-breaking. She highlighted the diverse participation, from seasoned riders to young enthusiasts, all displaying courage and focus in front of a live audience. Dawson expressed pride in recognizing these dedicated efforts.

A Legacy of High-Wheel Achievements

The recent record-breaking spree adds to the extensive catalog of approximately 30 penny-farthing world records maintained by Guinness. This builds upon a previous 'extravaganza' in October 2024 at London's Herne Hill Velodrome and Lee Valley Velopark, where 13 world records were shattered, including the fastest 1km by a man and the furthest distance covered in an hour by a solo woman on a penny-farthing. Both the smallest and largest penny-farthings ridden on Saturday were custom-built in Australia by the renowned craftsman Dan Bolwell, affectionately known as 'Penny Farthing Dan