RAAM: A Mindset Journey.

The calm before the storm - RAAM 2025 Start line in Oceanside, California.

I've had the privilege of witnessing RAAM - Race Across America from a few different angles, and let me tell you, no matter how you get involved, it’s a transformative experience.

I've been there as a crew manager, as part of the crew, and this year, as one of the official RAAM photographers. I’ve seen the race unfold in ways most people can only imagine. Each year brings something new, but one thing stays constant: the unwavering endurance of both the cyclists and the crew. It's the kind of event that makes you question what the human body is truly capable of—where grit, sleep deprivation, and an iron will are tested in the most extreme ways.

As a cyclist myself, I’ve never participated in RAAM as a rider, but I’ve been on the front lines as part of the crew. Each time, I’ve watched the race through different lenses. The relationship between the cyclist and the crew is nothing short of a symbiotic bond. The cyclist may be the one on the bike, but behind them, there’s a well-oiled machine—the

crew. They are the unsung heroes of RAAM, the ones making sure the rider is fed, hydrated, rested, and kept safe. And in return, they become the cyclist’s lifeline, supporting them emotionally and physically through one of the toughest races on the planet.

The weather as the Enemy. This is everyday life at RAAM.

But here’s the thing: no matter how strong the team is, it all comes down to mindset.

I’ve seen many great athletes falter because they couldn’t find that mental edge when the pain became unbearable, when sleep deprivation kicked in, or when things just weren't going to plan. RAAM isn’t just a race of physical endurance; it's a battle of the mind. The cyclists have to dig deep—not just for the legs to keep turning the pedals, but for their minds to keep them going hour after hour, day after day. It’s about controlling the self-doubt, pushing past the exhaustion, and embracing the discomfort.

And then there’s the lack of sleep - It’s a brutal aspect of RAAM that can break even the strongest competitors.

A hand-picked crew can play some crucial roles such as support, organize and motivate the cyclists.

The race doesn’t stop, and neither do you. Most cyclists will ride for 12 to 18 hours a day, and that’s where the crew becomes absolutely essential. They provide the support and motivation to keep pushing through the mental fog that comes with sleep deprivation.

I’ve seen it up close—how the cyclists' power through their fatigue and how crucial those moments of rest are when they get a few minutes to shut their eyes before the next leg. But it’s not just the cyclists who suffer from lack of sleep. The crew members are often just as sleep-deprived, and it’s a delicate balance of staying alert, ensuring safety, and maintaining the energy to keep everything running smoothly.

Safety first. No matter what.

Safety is always a concern in a race like this, and it’s something that can never be taken lightly. At speeds of up to 30 mph on narrow, winding roads with long hours of darkness, staying visible and ensuring the cyclist's safety is key. The crew is there to watch out for obstacles, vehicles, and unpredictable conditions that could arise. The teamwork extends beyond the bike—it’s in the constant communication between cyclist, crew, and the race organizers, making sure every single detail is accounted for, no matter how small.

Here's the thing about RAAM—it’s a race, but it’s also a lifestyle. You don’t just show up, race, and leave. Once you're there, you are part of the RAAM family, and it gets into your blood. It’s like an addiction that calls you back each year, whether you’re riding or supporting. It’s something you have to experience to truly understand.

The race doesn’t wait for anyone. Once you're there, you need self-control and discipline. It’s not just about being physically prepared—it’s about having the discipline to pace yourself, stay mentally focused, and take the challenges one step at a time.

So, whether you’re a cyclist, a crew member, or even a photographer like me, RAAM is an experience that changes you.

It’s not about how fast you go, but how far you can push yourself, your team, and your mind. And once you’re part of it, you’ll understand why so many come back year after year, eager to face that same challenge again.

Breathtaking sceneries everywhere. What a privilege to cross 12 American states and experience the outdoors as I've never imagined before.

If you’re considering being part of RAAM don’t think about just crossing the finish line—think about the journey, the people you’ll meet, the lessons you’ll learn, and the power of your own mind to keep you moving forward. No matter your role, it’s a story of endurance, camaraderie, and the pursuit of the impossible.

See you in Atlantic City, at the finish line!

— Chris Kittler, 7sherpas Founder