Borrego Sun - Since 1949

Mark your calendars...

Race Across America and Race Across the West are cycling back to action for 2024. This rigorous competition will have over 300 ultracyclists from 20 nations participating, including Borrego Springs' very own, Sylvia Maas.

The competition begins in Oceanside on June 11, with over 100 cyclists (RAAM and RAW solo racers), and their crews ready to make the trek.

The first time stop (TS-01) is in Borrego Springs, after riders complete the first 88 miles of the race.

Trekking across our broad desert landscape where temperatures reach into the triple digits around this time, is going to be a challenge for these riders.

Borrego Springs became the first official time stop for Race Across America in 2018.

RAW follows the first 845 miles of the RAAM course, from Oceanside, to Durango, Colorado and starts alongside the RAAM solo racers. Traversing some of the most beautiful country in the west, RAW leaves the beach in Oceanside, climbs the Coastal Range and the drops into the scorching desert. After crossing the deserts of California and Arizona, racers begin a gradual climb into the mountains surrounding Flagstaff, Arizona and eventually into the Rocky Mountains. The race finishes at Fort Lewis College in the cycling mecca of Durango, Colorado.

Race Across the West (RAW), is a qualifying race for Race Across America (RAAM).

After making this first stop in Borrego Springs, they will head to Brawley (TS-02) and head out across the country. It is estimated the solo riders will pass through Borrego in the late-afternoon and mid-night. RAAM teams will begin the trek on June 15.

The annual race, dubbed to one of the most challenge endurance events and the world's longest time trial, did not take place for the first time since its inception in 1982.

RAAM spans over 3,000 miles, climbs 175,000 feet, crosses 13 states, and finishes on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

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, and the Great Plains.

Team racers have a maximum of nine days but most finish in about seven and a half with the fastest in just over five days. Solo racers have a maximum of 12 days to complete the race, most finishing in 11 days with the fastest finishing in under 8 days.

RAAM is not limited to professional cyclists, and is open to professional and amateur athletes alike. While solo racers must qualify to compete, anyone may organize a team and race.

Remember to drive cautiously and cheer these riders on!

To follow the RAAM racers, visit http://www.raceacrossamerica.com.

The 6-12-24 Hour World Time Trial Championships are set for November, but are subject to change.

Social media will be buzzing at Facebook, Twitter (@RAAMraces) and Instagram (@raceacrossamerica) pages.