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A lawyer by profession, Mumbai-based Kabir Rachure is smitten by cycling. Last year in September, he completed the Great Himalayan Ultra, a race that involves cycling at an altitude of above 3,000m for most part from Leh to Drass. But he did not stop after this challenging race. Recently, he completed the Race Across America (RAAM), an ultra-distance road cycling race held across the United States that started in 1982 as the Great American Bike Race. RAAM is one of the longest annual endurance events in the world. Rachure, who is in his late 20s, took 11 days, 22 hours and 43 minutes to complete 4,940 km.  

Starting from Oceanside, California, RAAM spans 3,000 miles across 12 states and finishes at City Doc in Annapolis, Maryland, the east coast sailing mecca. Participants have to cycle for 12 days with 12 crew members. RAAM, which combines distance, terrain and weather, is a true test of speed, strength and endurance, and is also an amalgamation of work and play. 

For Rachure, the race was tough because the terrain and climate is so different in USA. To prepare for the race, he started training from April last year and took part in different cycling championships. “Miten Thakker, a cycling champion and coach, chalked out my race plan. I targeted three races. First was the high altitude Great Himalayan Ultra, which I knew would prepare me for RAAM. This was followed by Deccan Cliffhanger, which is an annual 646 km (400 mile) ultra cycling race from Pune to Goa, comprising solo and relay team categories which I completed in 24 hours and 18 minutes. And then I did Ultra Spice Race where I could do all the experiments and try new terrains,” shares he.  
During RAAM, he suffered from cramps which slowed him down. In fact, the variations in weather — from 37 °C to minus 8 °C — did affect his performance but he didn’t give up. Furthermore, he is all kicked about going for the 2020 race and perform even better. 

Speaking of the growing cycling awareness in India and cyclists participating in international cycling events, Rachure says that the trend will only grow. “It is amazing to see so many talented cyclists from India representing the country globally, and may the tribe increase. Families and friends must also encourage and support those who want to take up cycling as a sport or profession,” he shares. 

However, Rachure feels that  the traffic and roads in India are not bicycle-friendly. “If this attitude doesn’t change, it will continue to be a hurdle for cyclists. Apart from that there has to be dedicated cycling tracks in our country,” he asserts. 

All about RAAM 
For 36 years, RAAM has been challenging ultracyclists from across the globe to push their physical and mental limits to the farthest reaches. Starting in Oceanside, under one of the longest piers in California, RAAM spans 3,000 miles, climbs 175,000 ft, crosses 12 states and finishes at City Dock in Annapolis, Maryland, the east coast sailing mecca.

The route travels west to east, traversing three major mountain ranges (Sierra, Rocky and Appalachian), crosses four of America’s longest rivers (Colorado, Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio) and the Great Plains. Also, passing through such iconic American landmarks as the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, Monument Valley, Great Plains and Gettysburg.

Open to amateur and professional racers, in solo, 2-, 4- and 8-person relay teams, there is no other race in the world comparable to RAAM. The race has become a global icon, having had over 35 countries represented. Not only has RAAM proved to be one of the most challenging races in the world, but has become a huge platform for racers to raise awareness and funds for charities of their choice. Racers have raised over $2 million per year over the past five years.

The schedule for RAAM 2020 are as follows:
RAAM Solo Start  
Tuesday, June, 16, 2020
RAW Solo & Team Start 
Tuesday, June 16, 2020
RAAM Team Start
Saturday, June, 20, 2020

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