Remember that long ride you did last summer? Well, sit down. Because Barrie, Ont. cyclist Dylan Pearce is going to make that feel like a quickie.
In 2026, Pearce is taking on a series of ultra-distance cycling challenges. That includes attempts at Guinness World Records and World Ultra Cycling records. His goal is not just sporting: he also wants to raise awareness for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
For Dylan, cycling is more than a sport. It’s been therapy, discipline, and purpose. “Over the past four years, cycling has shaped me into an ultra-endurance athlete. It’s taught me that no matter how steep the climb, there is always a way forward,” he said.
Dylan’s journey began with slightly…sort of, smaller, yet grueling adventures. In 2025, he bikepacked 1,300 km around Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula. Shortly after, he finished first in a 540 km ultra race with a whopping 5,200 m of elevation gain. Then, he did an 825 km ride around Lake Ontario in 28 hours without sleep. (Oouch.)
His campaign, Ride Beyond Limits, aims to raise $7,500 for CMHA while using cycling as a platform to spark conversations about mental health and perseverance.
His 2026 schedule is…amibitous to say the least. Check out what he has planned:
2,800 km along the Pacific Coast Highway (Canada–Mexico) for a Fastest Known Time attempt
825 km Lake Ontario circumnavigation aiming for Guinness and World Ultra Cycling records
805 km across Ontario for another World Ultra Cycling record
Additional 1,000–1,600 km races across Quebec and Michigan
So far, Dylan has raised over $3,170 toward his $2,800 goal. To learn more, check out his GoFundMe.com link.