A 95-year-old Southland cyclist who survived a heart attack and triple bypass surgery has celebrated his birthday by breaking an age group cycling world record in Invercargill.

Peter Grandiek rode an extraordinary 22.948 kilometres in one hour at the ILT Stadium Southland velodrome on Tuesday evening, setting a new mark for the men’s 95 plus age category, subject to official confirmation.

ILT Stadium Southland announced the achievement on social media, describing Grandiek as an inspiration.

But behind the remarkable performance is an even more extraordinary life story.

Grandiek grew up in the Netherlands during the Nazi occupation, experiencing years of hardship, hunger and deprivation during the Second World War.

In an interview with the Otago Daily Times earlier this year, he reflected on his childhood.

“I didn’t really have a youth like people now,” he said.

“I feel being here is a privilege.”

His sporting achievements are particularly remarkable considering he suffered a heart attack at 78 while still working on his deer farm near Invercargill.

According to the Heart Foundation, Grandiek collapsed shortly after coming inside from working on the farm and was taken to Southland Hospital.

He subsequently underwent triple bypass surgery in Dunedin.

Determined to regain his fitness, he began walking before gradually returning to cycling.

He eventually started training at the Invercargill Velodrome, where a cycling coach recognised his potential.

Grandiek went on to win numerous national championship gold medals and set an age group world best for the one hour cycling record in 2015, covering 29.187 kilometres.

He also competed at the 2017 World Masters Games, returning home with four gold medals and four New Zealand age group records.

His latest record attempt was supported by Cycling Southland, with the event also raising funds for Hospice Southland.

Grandiek celebrated afterwards by holding a Dutch flag above his head.

The 22.948 kilometre distance remains subject to official ratification.