What is the Race Across America?

Created in 1982, the Race Across America, or RAAM, has established itself as a new and dramatic American tradition, respected worldwide for the sheer magnitude of its challenge. RAAM is the most recognized and longest endurance annual cycling event in our world today. Competitors must travel close to 3,000 miles in 9 days to be competitive. They do so by racing approximately 22 hours a day over mountains, across deserts and through the manifestation of pain and doubt the likes of which are unparalleled in almost any other athletic endeavor on earth.

Unlike other famous races like le Tour de France, RAAM has no stages or designated rest periods. There is no drafting and the race is live to the very end. From the start to the finish, it is a single stage race, a battle against the vast environmental conditions encountered and the rider's own mental and physical capacities. The men and women who compete as soloists or as team participants are dedicated and driven athletes who are comprised from an international field of professionals from all walks of life.

The Race Across America is an event so staggering that merely to finish is for most, the accomplishment of a lifetime. RAAM inspires everyone that it touches. A monumental race contested with the utmost of sportsmanship and zeal, truly, RAAM is larger than life. A breeding ground for champions, a testing ground for elite riders and a shining example of the strength of human spirit.

Click here to see the route that will take riders across the country. Get a detailed list of the cites and towns visited by riders and their teams along the way.