(Boulder, CO ) Less than 30 days from now, 215 men and women will start riding in the "world's toughest bicycle race," the Race Across America (RAAM). These international competitors begin racing June 7 on a 3,000-mile route stretching from Oceanside, California to Annapolis, Maryland. Ultra-endurance cyclists race continuously day and night, on their own or riding as part of a relay team supported by a crew of 8 to15 people who follow in support cars and RV's with food and supplies for the race.

In addition to the coast-to-coast race, RAAM offers two other events for
competitors that also start June 7. Twenty racers will participate in the Race Across the West, which runs concurrently with the Race Across America and covers the first 1,000 miles of the RAAM course, finishing in Taos, New Mexico. An additional 20 racers will partake in the 24-Hour Challenge.This team-oriented event also runs concurrently with the Race Across America, and follows the first 500 miles of the RAAM course, finishing in Flagstaff, Arizona. This is a great event for teams to gain RAAM experience.

RAAM competitors face challenges beyond traditional bicycle racing that can

including desert heat, prairie winds, rainstorms, tornadoes, altitude, the dark of night, and navigational issues. The course stretches across the Rockies, through the heartland of America, and the Appalachians. RAAM is recognized as one of the toughest events in the world and a tribute to human endurance.

Many competitors raise money and awareness for charities as they compete in the race. This year more than 35 organizations will be the recipients from the efforts of the 2008 Race Across America riders.

Visit the revamped Race Across America website at www.raceacrossamerica.org for the most comprehensive information about the route, racer profiles, updates, blogs, videos, and other race facts.