She Escaped a Toxic Relationship… Became a Tri World Champion and Broke 3 World Records – Kate Strong’s Rise

What does it take to become a three-time world record holder, a global climate advocate, and a leader in behavioural change?

For Kate Strong , it all started with heartbreak, a bicycle, and a relentless desire to live life on her own terms.

In a recent episode of the Ride To Success podcast, hosted by Pedro Couto Lopes , Kate opens up about her unconventional path—from aerospace engineer to endurance athlete and eco-activist. Far from being just a tale of sporting glory, Kate’s story is a masterclass in emotional resilience, mindset shifts, and living in alignment with purpose.

“We’re not here to just survive. We’re here to thrive,” she told Pedro. “And that starts with knowing who you are.”

Breaking the Cycle—Literally and Figuratively

Kate didn't grow up dreaming of athletic success. In fact, she didn’t become a triathlete until her 30s, after leaving a toxic relationship that left her questioning her worth. Instead of running from the pain, she got on a bike—and rode straight into a new life.

In 2021, she cycled over 433 miles on a static bike in 24 hours, breaking three Guinness World Records in the process. But this wasn’t just about endurance—it was a metaphor for transformation.

“That record wasn’t about being the fastest,” she shared. “It was about being the most committed to change.”

Cycling for the Planet

Her recent project, Climate Cycle, took her across 3,000 miles of the UK on a handmade bamboo bike. Along the way, she visited 50+ communities and collaborated with universities to track air quality and behavioural change. She lives by her values and encourages others to examine how their lifestyle choices affect the planet.

Lessons from the Ride

Throughout the conversation, Kate drops golden takeaways for anyone looking to shift gears in their life:

• You don’t need permission to start over.

• Performance and purpose can—and should—coexist.

• Small behavioural changes can create massive ripple effects.

• Collaboration, not competition, is the future of leadership.

For cyclists, entrepreneurs, or anyone stuck in a rut, Kate offers not just motivation, but a practical framework for moving forward. “Ask yourself what you want to be remembered for,” she said. “Then ride in that direction.”

This episode of Ride to Success isn’t just for cycling fans—it’s for anyone ready to get back in the saddle and ride with intention.

 Listen to the podcast:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XhcMcW28Tuk7Vr4XK47TL

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ride-to-success/id1726829754

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtzjN9DhQi18kpAl-h6fuMA