A TEENAGER is getting on his bike in the hope of becoming the youngest person to cycle around the globe.

David Clark, 17, of Stanley in County Durham, will take part in next year’s 18,000-mile Global Bicycle Race, which will see him pedal through 18 countries.

David, who has been cycling since he was five, has his sights on the record for the fastest circumnavigation – currently 195 days – as well as becoming the youngest person to complete the challenge.

David, an A-level student at Durham Gilesgate Sports College and Sixth Form Centre, will set off with fellow riders from the meridian line at Greenwich, London, on February 18, next year, and will hopefully arrive back in the city a few days before the start of the Olympics.

He hopes to follow an eastward route, taking in western Europe, Ukraine, Russia, India, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, the US, Portugal, Spain and France – a journey he believes should take between 140 and 150 days.

He said: “I’m not only trying to win the race and break the world record for the fastest male to cycle the world, I also aim to be the youngest person to cycle the world.

“Currently the record stand at 23 years and five months.

“I am 17 and still in college, completing my A-levels, which means I will only be 18 when I start the race and will be back in July at the finish, a few days before my 19th birthday.

“The average age of the current known competitors for the race is about 25, with the youngest person after me 23.”

David needs to raise £25,000 to take part in the race – to cover insurance, food, crossings and accommodation – and hopes to attract sponsors.

“I am really looking forward to it,” he said. “It will be a great challenge, but it will be a great experience.

“I will experience lots of different climates and cultures.

“My family are all for it and are very supportive,” he added.

Anyone who would like to sponsor David can reach him on 07794-422340 or through his Facebook page.