Race Across America (RAAM)
The Race Across America or RAAM is an ultra-distance road cycling race that takes place West to East coast across the United States. The race began in 1982 and is a huge event in the US sporting calendar.
RAAM is one of the longest annual endurance events in the world, currently 30% longer than the Tour de France but with less than half the time to complete.
Race Across America is approximately 4800km, making it a transcontinental event. The route contains 54,000m (179,000ft) of climbing, traversing directly through the heart of America. More importantly, the race has no stages - it is a nonstop event from start to finish, break stops, sleep and mechanics are included within your time.
Each racer and team has a support crew that follows in vehicles to provide food, water, mechanical repairs and medical aid. During the night, a vehicle with flashing lights is required to follow each rider to ensure safety.
In 2022, 33 solo riders, 5 two-person teams, 16 four-person teams and 10 eight-person teams completed in RAAM.
There are three mountain ranges; starting with the Rocky Mountains and three passes with an elevation of more than 3000m (9843 feet).