LYON, France (September 28, 2012)--French cyclist Robert Marchand has ridden 100 kilometers, or about 62 miles, in 4 hours, 17 minutes and 27 seconds.

Marchand, by the way, is 100 years old.

Setting off on his Trek racing bike around noon at a track in Lyon, Marchand covered the distance at an average pace of 14.5 miles per hour, not far off the pace he kept up to set the world hour record for his age group in Switzerland last February.

No prior record for a centenarian riding 100 km exists, but cycling's international governing body will recognize Marchand's feat, French cycling federation head David Lappartient said.

The president of Marchand's cycling club says he's an inspiration.

"He's an example for humanity, he gives people hope," said Gerard Mistler.