Guinness World Records for Inclusion

On March 11, 2025, in Sebring, Florida, a historic event unfolded that raised the voice of inclusion in sports for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Raúl Villalba, a visually impaired cyclist, and Ricardo Paván, president of the Growing for Inclusion Foundation, came together for a monumental challenge: to set multiple Guinness World Records and WUCA world records in just 24 hours.

At 8:00 a.m., on a 3.6-mile circuit, Raúl and Ricardo—riding a tandem bike—embarked on their journey, supported by a dedicated six-member team. From the first lap, nature posed a fierce challenge. Strong winds reaching up to 12 miles per hour pushed back hard, testing their endurance and resolve. But the pair, having been forced to abandon the challenge the year before due to bad weather, were determined. This time, nothing would stop them.

Tandem cycling demands a rare connection—of rhythm, trust, and shared purpose. As night fell, the winds calmed, but a new obstacle emerged: cold. The temperature dropped to 42°F, catching the team off guard. Despite the harsh conditions, Raúl and Ricardo pedaled through the darkness, facing physical suffering but never giving up. Their team rallied around them, offering support and warmth when it was needed most. In that moment, unity became their superpower.

At 5:00 a.m., after nearly 21 hours on the bike, the duo paused for a quick 5-minute break—a moment to reset and prepare for the final stretch. As the sky turned from black to blue, hope rose with the dawn. And then, at 8:01 a.m., they crossed the finish line—smiling, exhausted, victorious.

They had covered an incredible 408.64 miles in 24 hours on a tandem bike. Later officially verified as 407.57 miles (655.93 km) by WUCA, Raúl and Ricardo set 18 new Guinness records and WUCA world records.

But this achievement was about more than numbers.

It was about proving that when the right support is in place, people with disabilities can achieve the impossible. It was about showing the world that inclusion has no limits, and that the human spirit is capable of breaking every barrier.

“This journey wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about breaking barriers.”

With every mile, Raúl and Ricardo showed the world what’s possible when we ride together for inclusion.

A heartfelt thank you to the incredible team, supporters, and everyone who believed in this mission. The records have been set, but the movement is just getting started.