A group of eight friends, aged 16-17, have achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new record in the London Tube Challenge, completing the journey to all 272 stations in an astonishing 18 hours, 8 minutes, and 13 seconds. This achievement officially establishes them as the fastest individuals to traverse the entire London Underground network.
Dubbed “The Amersham Ambushers,” the team began their record attempt at Heathrow Terminal 5 and concluded at Amersham station, a departure from their previous failed attempts where Heathrow had been their final destination. Determined to succeed after two prior setbacks, the group attributed their success to a combination of luck and a meticulously planned route that saw them surpass the previous record by an impressive margin of 1 hour and 56 minutes.
Arthur Phillips, one of the team members, reflected on their journey, stating, “A mixture of arguably luck and also a much-improved route allowed us to beat the record by such a margin.”
The challenge required them to visit every single London Underground station, including the recently opened Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms stations, which had not been included in previous attempts. Prior to the addition of these stations in 2021, the record stood at 15 hours and 45 minutes. Notably, stations on the Elizabeth Line and the Docklands Light Railway were excluded from their route, as they are not part of the Underground network.
Despite meticulous planning, the team encountered numerous unexpected obstacles throughout the day, including a train losing power at Heathrow, delays due to red signals, and one member losing their wallet. Overcoming these challenges involved quick thinking and adaptability, including last-minute route adjustments and physically demanding sprints through London’s bustling streets.
Arthur emphasized the dual motivations behind their record-breaking attempt: solving the logistical puzzle of planning the route and exploring unfamiliar parts of London. “The feeling is incredible, obviously,” Arthur shared. “We had a little party to celebrate where we drank some Guinness very appropriately, and we are meeting with the previous record holder for lunch.”
Their achievement not only highlights their dedication and strategic prowess but also underscores their passion for exploring and conquering challenges in one of the world’s busiest cities. As they celebrate their triumph, the “Amersham Ambushers” have left an indelible mark on the London Tube Challenge, setting a new standard for future enthusiasts to aspire to.
You Might Be Interested In:
