A Year of Broken Promises and Unwavering Determination

As I sit down to reflect on this past year, I find it hard to encapsulate the rollercoaster of emotions, challenges, and growth I’ve experienced. It has been, without a doubt, the most testing year of my life. A year that began with so much hope and promise, only to unravel in ways I could never have imagined.

When I embarked on this journey to set a female world record cycling from Cape Town to Norway, I knew it would demand everything of me—my time, my energy, my resources, and my heart. What I didn’t anticipate was how many times I would have to pick myself up from setbacks that were entirely out of my control.

Promises were made to me. Promises that lit a fire in my soul, only to be extinguished when those who made them decided they wanted guarantees. Guarantees that I could not, in good conscience, provide.

Here’s the truth: no athlete—no matter how experienced, skilled, or prepared—can guarantee the outcome of their endeavour. Not even the most seasoned professional can guarantee a gold medal, a world title, or a perfect performance. What we can promise, though, is this: our unwavering commitment, our relentless dedication, and our willingness to give everything—our sweat, blood, and tears—to the pursuit of our dreams.

Dreams Without Guarantees

It’s easy to ask for guarantees when you’re sitting on the sidelines. It’s harder to understand that the very essence of pushing boundaries is embracing the unknown. For me, this journey is about so much more than the record itself. It’s about showing what’s possible when you pour your heart and soul into something. It’s about inspiring others, especially women, to dream big and chase those dreams, no matter the odds. And it’s about reminding us all that the value of a goal isn’t in its certainty but in the courage it takes to pursue it.

I’ve spent years preparing for this challenge, pouring everything I have into making it a reality. The setbacks—the loss of sponsors, the financial struggles, the postponements—have been devastating. But through it all, I’ve come to realise something: while others may walk away when the road gets tough, I am not walking away. This is my journey, and I am seeing it through, with or without guarantees.

The Strength to Keep Going

This year has been one of transformation. I’ve learned to rely on myself in ways I never thought possible. I’ve been humbled by the kindness of friends who opened their doors to me when I had nowhere else to go. I’ve leaned on the support of my coach, Ian Jenner, who reminded me of my strength when I doubted myself. And I’ve found an incredible community of cyclists who have shared advice, encouragement, and solidarity when I needed it most.

’ve faced countless moments of heartbreak, but I’ve also experienced moments of profound clarity and resilience. I’ve realised that while the promises of others may fall away, the promises I make to myself are the ones that truly matter. I promised myself I would see this challenge through, and I will—no matter how difficult the road ahead may be.

Looking Forward

As I prepare to set off on this journey solo and unsupported, I do so with a full heart and a clear mind. I know the risks. I know the uncertainties. And I know the weight of the expectations I’ve placed on myself. But I also know that this is what I was meant to do.

To those who have supported me along the way: thank you. Your belief in me has been my strength during the toughest times. To those who doubted: I understand your hesitation, but I hope this journey shows you that the greatest rewards come from taking the greatest risks.

And to anyone reading this who has a dream burning within them: let this be your sign. Chase it with everything you have, even if there are no guarantees. Especially if there are no guarantees. Because in the end, it’s not about the promise of success—it’s about the courage to try.

Here’s to 2025, to the open road, and to the dreamers who refuse to give up.

With love and determination,

Paula Ralph