Race Across America

Race Across America is a solo and team ultra-cycling race from Oceanside, California, to Annapolis, Maryland. Participants have a maximum of twelve days to cover approximately 4,800 kilometers, with no designated rest days. Many solo cyclists spend over twenty hours daily on their bikes. The distance is about twice that of the Tour de France, but the time limit is much stricter, placing the event at the extreme edge of endurance cycling. The route crosses the United States from coast to coast. The challenge involves not only riding quickly but also maintaining function despite sleep deprivation, changing weather, navigation, nutrition, and mechanical issues. A support crew is vital, with individuals managing food, equipment, safety, pacing, and decision-making as fatigue impairs judgment. Roughly half the participants typically do not finish. Sébastien Sasseville’s solo finish is notable as he was the second person with type 1 diabetes to complete the race in that category.