An Irish couple who have cycled over 31,000km on their global circumnavigation by bike are set to complete their journey by arriving at Cape Spear in Newfoundland on Saturday, August 29.

Mark Graham, 51 and from Waterford, and Ellie O’Byrne, 46 and from Cork, set out to cycle around the world on February 1, 2025. 

They have crossed 24 countries on three continents in the 19 months since, cycling the length of the Danube river, crossing the deserts of Central Asia, and crossing the equator in Sumatra in January. 

Since March 17 they have been cycling across the North American landmass, cycling over 7,000km in the US including crossing the Rocky Mountains, the Mississippi and cycling right into New York City. 

Cape Spear in Newfoundland is the easternmost point in Canada and the closest the duo can get to Ireland on their bicycles. 

“It’s been an amazing adventure,” Mark Graham said. “We’re still trying to get our heads around the fact that we have cycled all around this incredible planet. As much as we’ve enjoyed the freedom and exhilaration of the last 19 months, we’re also looking forward to going home to our families.”

“Words could never express just how huge this journey has been,” Ellie O’Byrne said. “We’re tired, but on a huge high as we push for the last few days of our cycle across North America.”

“Newfoundland has a reputation as the friendliest place on earth and the hospitality, kindness and support we’re getting here is very moving. It’s going to be a very emotional moment to arrive at the lighthouse at Cape Spear and look out at the Atlantic towards home.”

Writer’s residency awarded

Mark and Ellie are looking forward to exploring Ireland’s connections to St John’s, the capital of Newfoundland, in the days after their epic journey ends at Cape Spear.

They have been awarded a writer’s residency by the Pouch Cove Foundation at Pouch Cove, 20km from St John’s, for the month of September and will write a book about their experiences while there. 

They fly from St John’s back to Ireland on October 8, and plan to cycle from Dublin airport right back to their starting point, the lifeguard’s hut on the prom in Tramore.