JOE LAWHORN
Professional Ultra-Cyclist
I live in the moment and take on every day with discipline, passion, and the courage to push myself to unknown limits. Champion, leader, finisher, record holder; there are many titles I hold in my career as a Professional Ultra-Cyclist. But, the most important one will always be role model.
WHO AM I?
Passion. Persistence. Perseverance.
The world of professional athletics isn’t an easy one. It’s a full-time commitment requiring personal sacrifice and a dedication to preparation. I believe my incredible work ethic at a young age and spending time overseas in the military helped prepare me for this ultimate goal: to compete at the top level as a Professional Ultra-Cyclist.
Here is a little glimpse of my story. I am a retired marine. During my service to our country, I served three tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. During my deployments overseas I sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, and other injuries from my actions in combat. Following my medical retirement from the military, I took up cycling as a source of therapy to help manage the symptoms of my injuries.
My cycling career started by competing in local cycling events in 2014. I joined Team Dayton Cycling in 2016 & since then my cycling has flourished. I have competed in everything from State, National & World Championship events. I have become known for my physical endurance placing me as a top athlete in the ultra-cycling community.
I have competed in world premier events in just about every disciple there is in cycling. As for off-road events I have completed Dirty Kanza XL, a 350-mile gravel race & The Crusher which is 225-mile mountain bike event. However, my specialty and central focus are my 24-hour time trial events. I currently hold 9 World Ultra Cycling records including a world record for “most miles ridden on a Fixed Gear bicycle in 24 hours,” setting the record at 415.2 miles. To top ALL that in June of 2018 I conquered the World’s toughest bicycle race, the Race Across America.
Here is a link to my Strava Athlete Page: https://www.strava.com/athletes/2279855