Last May, we published a post by Matthew Lefthand recounting his 24-hour world-record attempt on Zwift. He was successful in his attempt and, in fact, set 12 new World Ultra-Cycling Association (WUCA) records, which were also Guinness World Records.
“Lefty” is an avid Zwifter, but his massive 24-hour indoor effort wasn’t the only achievement of his breakout 2025 season. Not by a long shot. He also notched major achievements riding outside, showing once again how indoor training can fuel outdoor results.
Below, find a press release detailing Matthew Lefthand being named the WUCA World Cup Champion in his rookie season. Congrats, Lefty!
Utah Man Named 2025 World Cup Champion by the World Ultra-Cycling Association
Matthew Lefthand takes the Ultra-Cycling Scene by Storm in his Rookie Season
Salt Lake City, UT — January 3, 2026 — The World Ultra-Cycling Association (WUCA) proudly announces the conclusion of its 2025 World Cup season, a global competition recognizing the world’s most dedicated and high-performing ultra-distance cyclists across four endurance disciplines. The World Cup requires competitors to complete two timed challenges, and two long-distance races, which are then awarded points based on their performances at each event.
This year, the spotlight shone brightly on Matthew Lefthand, (Utah, USA) a licensed mental health counselor turned elite ultra-cycling athlete, whose record-setting performances propelled him to the forefront of international endurance racing. Lefthand’s introduction to ultra-cycling began in August 2024 when he broke the course record by six hours at Hoodoo 500, a 520-mile race through Southern Utah.
Lefthand’s 2025 season has been defined by his relentless pursuit of personal growth and has garnered more attention around the world with each performance.
- Early in 2025, Lefthand covered 576.17 miles in 24 hours at Bike Sebring, the most miles ridden by an American in 24 hours, setting the course record and taking 1st place overall.
- In June, Race Across the West, (RAW) an 862-mile route known as the first third of the iconic Race Across America (RAAM) event, was Lefthand’s second qualifying effort. He not only won the race, but he beat a course record held for 12 years.
- Lefthand returned to Hoodoo 500 for a second attempt, besting his own record from 2024 by 4 hours. His position at the top of the leaderboard was clear, but he had one event left.
- After a crash in October, one week prior to his planned 12-hour event, Lefthand required collarbone surgery and had to make alternate plans. On December 14, he set 9 WUCA and Guinness World Records during a 12-hour ride on a recumbent bike and completed the Word Cup challenge.
Lefthand’s first place finishes and new course records at each of his events, landed him 8 points ahead of second place, Ingolf Micklisch (USA) and had more than double the points of third place, Piotr Mos (ITA).
“Not only did Matthew earn more points than any other previous World Cup winner, but his performances have brought a new level of excitement to all who follow the sport,” said Marc Polland, Past President of WUCA.
Lefthand’s journey this season was not just marked by competitive success, but also by personal breakthroughs and meaningful challenges:
“This season has been about discovering my limits, then continuously working to push past them, challenging what is believed to be possible in endurance athletics,” said Lefthand. “Every race, every record, and every training session has been a step toward redefining the limit on possible growth.”
His achievements have inspired athletes and fans around the world, illustrating that with grit, methodical preparation, and mental resilience, seemingly impossible goals can be achieved. Lefthand shares that he is often met with comments from strangers who express that they “rode their first 100 miles” on a day when Lefthand is completing a challenge and sharing his story online.
“People see me doing crazy things and then think, ‘Oh, maybe I haven’t given it everything I’ve got.’ And it’s incredible to hear these stories. It makes everything I’m doing that much more satisfying,” Lefthand said.
Both Lefthand and the global ultra-cycling community look toward 2026 with heightened ambitions, continued innovations in endurance training, and a deeper appreciation for the extraordinary athleticism that drives ultra-cycling forward.
“Matthew has breathed much needed, new life into this sport with his incredibly impressive race wins and world records this year. It seems that there’s nothing he can’t do. WUCA is thrilled by the enthusiasm and charisma Matthew has put behind sharing his experiences online. It is inspiring current athletes and bringing new cyclists to our sport,” said Deborah Bowlin, current President of WUCA.
Lefthand has set his sights on a similar trajectory in 2026, with plans to compete in the World Cup again, as well as each of the North American Championships for 6-hour, 12-hour, 24-hour, and Ultra Distance. Lefthand is also working on a special project that could lead to breaking 24 world records in 24 hours. Those interested in learning more can follow Lefthand on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube, or visit his website at nolimitsleft.com.
ABOUT WORLD ULTRA-CYCLING ASSOCIATION (WUCA)
The World Ultra-Cycling Association (WUCA) is a global, non-profit organization that sets standards for excellence and accomplishment in ultra-cycling. As the sport’s governing body, WUCA sets standards of rules for competitive events, annual challenges and records. Its mission is to support, inspire and grow ultra-cycling globally, providing resources and structure to empower both athletes and event organizers.
ABOUT WUCA WORLD CUP
Established by the World Ultra-Cycling Association (WUCA), the World Cup is a season-long competition and is at the pinnacle of competitive ultra-cycling. Athletes accrue points through performances in diverse ultra events including 12-hour, 24-hour, and fixed distance events including one 750–1,500 km event, and one beyond 1,500 km, showcasing versatile strength and endurance over a global calendar of challenges.
