When life throws you a curveball, some people duck, others swing back harder.
James Golding? He got on his bike and pedaled his way into the history books.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
At 28, Golding’s world turned upside down when doctors discovered an 11.5 cm tumor.
His weight plummeted from 196 pounds to just 84, and doctors gave him a mere 5% chance of survival. Talk about tough odds.
The journey that followed wasn’t just uphill – it was Mount Everest steep. After an emergency operation and an induced coma, Golding had to learn to walk again. Most people would’ve called it quits right there.
Finding Freedom on Two Wheels
But here’s where it gets interesting. While barely able to walk 500 yards, Golding decided to get back on a bike. That first ride? It wasn’t about breaking records or proving anything – it was about finding freedom again.
Sometimes life has a twisted sense of humor though. During his first attempt to ride across America, a truck hit him at 70 mph, breaking his ribs. His response? “Wasn’t as bad as it could have been.” Now that’s what I call perspective.
Turning Pain into Purpose
Here’s the kicker – Golding now views his cancer diagnosis as “one of the best things that ever happened” to him. Sounds crazy, right? But consider this: he’s raised over $4 million for charity and inspired countless others along the way.
Breaking Records, Breaking Barriers
These days, Golding isn’t just riding bikes – he’s breaking world records. He smashed the Guinness seven-day distance record and has his sights set on becoming the first Briton to win the Race Across America (RAAM).
The Power of Mindset
What’s particularly striking about Golding isn’t just his physical achievements – it’s his mindset. He doesn’t “attempt” challenges; he “will do” them. There’s no room for failure in his vocabulary.
More Than Just Cycling
For Golding, cycling isn’t just a sport – it’s everything. It’s made him a better person and helped him be the best version of himself for his family. His message is clear: visualize the best outcome, trust the process, and make every moment count.
Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or just someone needing a dose of inspiration, Golding’s story reminds us that sometimes the biggest mountains in life aren’t the ones we climb on our bikes – they’re the ones we overcome in our minds.
Turned 86 in May. Ride on average of 10-15 miles a day!! Started around age 84!!! Should have started a long while ago!! Using grandson’s bike who has opted out for his first car!!