Angus Young, a 30-year-old cyclist from Blandford Forum, England, has secured an impressive third-place finish in the 2026 Tour Divide, completing the 2,700-mile route in 13 days, 18 hours, and 3 minutes. This remarkable performance places him among the fastest riders to ever traverse the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. (bikepacking.com)
The Tour Divide, renowned for its grueling terrain and demanding conditions, saw Young face significant challenges throughout the race. Approximately 35 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border, the route diverges onto a nine-mile stretch of rugged singletrack on the Continental Divide Trail. During this section, Young suffered a tire puncture, necessitating a nearly two-hour repair under the encroaching desert night. Employing four plugs and super glue, he managed to continue, reaching the final 25 miles of pavement just as the rain ceased. (bikepacking.com)
Upon crossing the finish line at Antelope Wells, New Mexico, in the early hours of Friday morning, Young expressed a profound sense of accomplishment. In a video message, he shared, “We’ve made it. Not a soul to be seen.” Reflecting on the solitude of the border crossing, he added, “I’m lost for words. That’s quite rare for me. What a ride. It’s a really special route.” (bikepacking.com)
Young’s achievement is particularly noteworthy when considering the historical context of the Tour Divide. The current record was set in 2024 by Justinas Leveika, who completed the route in 13 days, 2 hours, and 16 minutes. Young’s time of 13 days, 18 hours, and 3 minutes places him just over 15 hours behind the record, underscoring the competitive nature of the event. (bikepacking.com)
Photographer Eddie Clark, who has been documenting the race, noted the challenging conditions faced by riders, especially as they navigated through New Mexico and encountered the season’s first monsoonal storms. His coverage provides a vivid portrayal of the riders’ resilience and determination throughout the event. (bikepacking.com)
Angus Young’s performance in the 2026 Tour Divide not only highlights his exceptional endurance and skill but also contributes to the rich tapestry of cycling achievements along the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. His journey serves as an inspiration to cyclists worldwide, exemplifying the spirit of adventure and perseverance that defines the Tour Divide.