The Race Across America for SickKids

This year Racer Sportif and Mattamy Homes has organized a group of eight Canadian cyclists to take part in the grueling Race Across America (RAAM) to raise awareness and funds for SickKids Hospital in Toronto.

The Race Across America is an ultra-marathon bicycle race across the USA that started in 1982 and draws athletes from around the world. It is now one of the best-known and longest endurance cycling events in the world. This annual transcontinental bicycle race begins on the West Coast in Oceanside, California and finishes over 5,000 km away in Annapolis, Maryland. Hundreds of athletes will come from around the world to test their strength and stamina in this remarkable feat.

RAAM is about generating maximum wattage paced over day and night cycling, balanced with managing pain, sleep and nutrition. Riders consume 6,000 to 8,000 calories of food a day and take in 400 to 520 ounces of fluid.

Unlike most multi-day bicycle races, RAAM has no stages or designated rest periods. Instead, the clock runs continuously from start to finish, with team races usually finishing in five to six days. Each team has a crew that follows in two or more vehicles to provide food, water and other supplies. A crew vehicle fitted with flashing lights is required to follow closely behind the rider at all times to ensure they are visible.

The race begins on Wednesday, June 11th this year. However, the members of Team Racer Sportif have already begun investing grueling hours into structured training programs that will help them “peak” for the event. In turn, they would be grateful for a financial investment by you toward maximizing the performance of the “team” of health professionals at SickKids. By pledging these riders in this exciting cycling event, you will be making a thoughtful and lasting contribution to the health, happiness and comfort of Canada’s children.