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## RAAM - What is it? 

## Race Across America 2020 

Race Across America (RAAM) is the world’s preeminent and longest running endurance bicycle race, regarded as the World Championship of Ultracycling, beginning in Oceanside, CA and ending in Annapolis, MD. Outside Magazine ranked the event as the World’s Toughest Endurance Race for its grueling Solo Division. But, RAAM has evolved into much more. Today this transcontinental endeavor continues to be the ultimate test of the solo athlete’s ability, determination and fortitude. However, teams now comprise the majority of the race field. Both solos and teams use RAAM as a platform for their philanthropic causes and each year raise millions of dollars for these causes. 

Unlike other famous races such as the Giro de Italia, Vuelta a Espana and Tour de France, RAAM has no stages. Also, unlike other famous stage races pros and amateurs race together and there are a number of different divisions, all on the race route together. Drafting is not allowed and since it is a “single-stage” race, the first one to finish in each division wins. As a solo endeavor, RAAM is the longest ultra cycling race in the world and for those who finish may be the accomplishment of a lifetime. However, as a relay team RAAM offers not only an opportunity to be challenged, but to have fun and create memories that will last a lifetime. Since RAAM offers Solo, 2-, 4- and 6-8-Person team divisions, RAAM is an achievable goal for many cyclists. 

## General Race Information 

On Tuesday, June 16, 2020, the Solo racers depart Oceanside, California on the 39th annual Race Across America. Competitors climb over 170,000 feet while passing through 12 states in their 3,000-mile campaign to the finish line in Annapolis, Maryland. Teams start on Saturday, June 20. Divisions included in the race are male and female Soloists, Standard (Diamond Frame), Tandem, Recumbent and 2-, 4- and 8- Person Teams. There are also various age groupings within these divisions. 

There are non-racing sections (parade sections) at both the start and finish of RAAM. These sections are short and are designed for safety and logistical reasons. 

## Where does the race start? 

RAAM begins near the Pier in Oceanside, California. 

## What are the starting times? 

 Solo Racers start on Tuesday, June 16$^{th}$ at 12:00pm (PDT). 

 Teams start on Saturday, June 20$^{th}$ at 12:00pm (PDT). 

## Where do they finish? 

 RAAM finishes at City Dock in downtown Annapolis, Maryland. 

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