RACE ACROSS AMERICA (Solo rider. 3,000 miles. 10 days.) Race Across America (RAAM) is one of the most respected and longest running endurance sports events in the world. RAAM is seen as a pinnacle of athletic achievement not only in cycling circles, but the greater sporting community as well. RAAM has a rich and storied history. In 1982, four individuals raced from the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles to the Empire State Building in New York City. Covered by national television, the race captivated the public's imagination. Teams were added in 1992 and quickly became the most popular and fastest growing segment of the race. Relay team racing made the event accessible to any reasonably fit cyclist. The 2013 race will be the 32nd edition of RAAM. There is no other race in the world like RAAM. The race inspires everyone whohas been a part of of it - racer, crew, staff, and fans alike. RAAM is the true test of speed, endurance, strength, and camaraderie - the ideal combination of work and fun! There is no race that matches the distance, terrain, and weather, no other event that tests a team's spirit from beginning to end.  RAAM 2013 begins in Oceanside, CA and ends in Annapolis, MD What makes RAAM different? RAAM is a race! But unlike the three great European Grand Tours (Tour de France, Vuelta a Espana, and Giro de Italia), RAAM is not a stage race. RAAM is on continual stage, similar to a time trial. Once the clock starts, it does not stop until the finish line. RAAM is about 30% longer than the Tour de France. Moreover, racers must complete the distance in roughly half the time allowed for the Tour. More importantly, RAAM is not limited to professional cyclists. RAAM is open to professional and amateur athletes alike. Solo racers must qualify to compete. Racers must traverse 3000 miles across 12 states and climb over 170,000 vertical feet. Solo racers have a maximum of 12 days to complete the race, with the fastest finishing in just over eight days. Solo racers ride between 250 and 350 miles a day, balancing speed and the need for sleep. Who races RAAM? Racers come from all over the world and all walks of life. Racers are both amateurs and professionals. But, the majority of racers are ordinary people with a passion for riding their bicycle. Racers range in age from 13 to 75. Every years, there are racers from at least 15 countries. Over 25 countries have been represented in the 30-year history of the race. Approximately 40% of racers are from outside the US. Only about 15% of racers are women. Racing for Charitable Causes RAAM is an outstanding platform for raising money for charitable causes. Racers annually raise collectively in excess of $2 million for a wide range of charitable causes. 2011 Race Statistics
 Material taken from raceacrossamerica.org |
RACE ACROSS AMERICA (Solo rider. 3,000 miles. 10 days.) |
