Race Across America 2021

Race Across America (RAAM) is described as ‘The World's Toughest Bike Race’, and in June 2021 I will be attempting to tackle this 3000 mile ride and finish within the 12 day cut off.

I'm Simon, I'm 32 years old and I live in Hampshire. I'm a full-time gardener, part-time cyclist and lifelong sufferer of Ulcerative Colitis.

By taking on this immense challenge, I'm hoping to raise awareness and money for Crohn's & Colitis UK, as proceeds from my race will go to this charity. I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis around eight years ago, after having suffered with the illness for most of my life. It is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. With no known cure, research is highly needed as more and more of our growing population is diagnosed.

My personal battle with the disease is ongoing - I take medication every day,  need an infusion of immunosuppressants every 6 weeks to stop the disease flaring up. There are days where it strips me of energy, but if there’s one thing I’ve learnt over the years it’s that exercise helps. Especially cycling, which is why I've decided to do this race!

Alongside fundraising, I hope to raise enough money to get me to the start line. Naturally, racing across America when I live across the Atlantic come at a cost, so I’m raising funds to get me and my crew to the start line as best prepared as possible, and to have the best chance at finishing the race on time. All proceeds beyond this will go straight to Crohn's &Colitis UK.

I would be forever grateful if you could spare any donations to make this possible. If you/your business are interested in sponsoring me, please do get in touch. 

Follow my preparations for RAAM on instagram at @simondoesraam.