Annie Ford is a climate activist, mountain biker and marine biologist; she’s also the kind of person who dreams big and inspires bigger. In the summer of 2024 she rode Tk miles from Mexico to Whistler on a full-suspension mountain bike. Her latest feat? Smashing a Guinness World Record by descending a mind-blowing 55,727 vertical meters on her bike in just 24 hours—all to help restore native forests in New Zealand.
Setting the stage
Coronet Peak, New Zealand, provided the backdrop for Annie’s epic ride. Over the course of a single day, she completed 133 laps of trails. Each one chipping away at a vertical descent goal. It wasn’t just a test of physical endurance; it was a mental marathon, fueled by grit, determination and—judging by Annie’s ever-present smile—a lot of good vibes.
The ride served as a fundraiser for reforestation efforts at Coronet Peak, with donations pouring in to regenerate native forests on this beautiful slice of Aotearoa.
The build-up: a community effort
With support from brands like Santa Cruz Bicycles, Queenstown’s local biking scene and a crew of friends, she transformed the dream into reality. Annie poured her soul into training, juggling physical preparation with fundraising efforts that included raffles and charity drives. Her campaign raised nearly $10,000 for Coronet Peak’s restoration efforts before the ride even began.
The descent
When the big day arrived, the first lap was ceremonial. A quiet acknowledgment of the challenge ahead. From there, it was pedal down, brakes feathered and full focus. Her friends, family and local riders cheered from the sidelines, braving the cold to witness history in the making.
The weather wasn’t exactly friendly—chilly winds whipped through the peaks and the night hours tested her resolve. But Annie never wavered. She even managed a few high-fives and laughs between runs, proving that determination doesn’t have to come at the cost of joy.
More than a record
When Annie rolled to a stop after 24 hours, she had done it: 55,727 vertical meters. Through her efforts, Annie raised awareness about climate action and reforestation, reminding everyone that the connections and friendships made along the way often outweigh the goals themselves.
