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BATTLE MOUNTAIN, Nev. (AP) A Canadian man and a French woman have set world bicycle speed records at an annual event in northeastern Nevada.

Sam Whittingham and Barbara Bautois pedaled recumbent bikes to the records on Nevada Route 305 near Battle Mountain, about 220 miles northeast of Reno.

The 32-year-old Bautois' speed of 72.5 miles per hour Wednesday night broke the women's record, set in 2005, by 6 mph.

The 37-year-old Whittingham's speed of 82.4 miles per hour Tuesday eclipsed the men's record he set last year by 0.1 mph.

Nearly two dozen cyclists from around the world are taking part in the 10th annual event through Saturday.

Organizers say one of the world's straightest, flattest and smoothest surfaces helps bikers pick up speeds before being timed over a 200-meter distance.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-17-09 1651CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list