American Cyclist Breaks World Record with Giant GPS Dog Drawing

Kristy Bellmer, an American cyclist, has set a new world record by creating the largest GPS drawing ever. Covering a staggering 4,707 kilometers across Europe on her bicycle, Bellmer’s remarkable journey was a tribute to her beloved deceased dog, Slinky.

Bellmer embarked on her epic adventure from Amsterdam, Netherlands, on May 1, 2024. Her route took her through Germany, Switzerland, France, and Belgium before returning to Amsterdam. The meticulously planned route formed the shape of a dog, a fitting tribute to her furry companion.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the route, Bellmer told Guinness World Records, “I wanted to start in Amsterdam because it’s cycling heaven! I also wanted to go to Paris and Brussels, and I had friends I wanted to visit in Switzerland and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany.” The cyclist added that she wanted the route to connect her to the places and people that were important to her.

In memory of her dog Slinky, Kristy Bellmer (USA) cycled around Europe to create the world’s largest GPS drawing by bicycle 🚴‍♀️ pic.twitter.com/d4Ro9ZhX7e

— Guinness World Records (@GWR) August 21, 2024

The journey was not without its challenges. Bellmer faced one of the wettest springs Europe had seen in years, forcing her to camp several nights. The terrain between Czechia and Germany also proved to be demanding. “The hills went on and on until around Frankfurt. I had thought I was done with hills once I was out of the Alps! I wasn’t prepared mentally,” Bellmer admitted.

Despite the obstacles, Bellmer remained determined to achieve her goal. She adjusted her route to visit friends and ensure that the GPS drawing maintained its intended shape. “I ended up making the butt bigger to get to my friend in Garmisch, and the foot longer for my friends in Switzerland, and I made the tail longer so I’d go into Czechia too – I thought that was cool,” she said.

With her extraordinary ride, Bellmer broke the previous world record held by American cyclist David Schweikert. Her remarkable achievement is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and love for both cycling and her beloved dog.