Help for Heroes – Wounded Servicemen Race Across America
“These incredible men are quiet heroes who have overcome massive and complex physical and mental challenges to regain their lives. They don’t shout about what they do, but it is our job to show you what they can do with the public’s support and inspire others to achieve”
Bryn Parry, CEO and Co-Founder of Help for Heroes
Eight wounded Servicemen are challenging themselves to compete in one of the world’s toughest cycling rides – the Race Across America. Four double amputees riding on handbikes will be accompanied by four wounded soldiers on upright bikes as they face a gruelling 3,051 mile trek across the United States. They aim to finish it within 8 days.
Rider Facts
Limbs missing: 9
Maximum percentage burns: 60%
Feet shattered: 2
Severe spinal injuries: 1
Race Across America Facts
Distance: 3,051 miles
Total Ascent: 170,000 ft
State lines crossed: 12
Counties visited: 88
Communities passed through: 355
Time taken: 8 days
Before they depart, a short film is being released by Help for Heroes. It captures moments from their training; showing the struggle that they have gone through to rebuild their lives after being wounded or injured for their country. From the monotonous hours spent on cycling machines in the gym, to sleep deprivation caused by over-night rides, the film shows the determination that the men have to succeed as they set-off to America.
The team’s practice run didn’t go smoothly: there were issues. Over a 24 hour period, the team cycled 407 miles, with a total ascent of 10,154. At the Devil’s staircase they were joined by supporters as they cycled up a 5 km incline – the Devil’s Staircase -which includes a gradient of over 25%. Yet through the race, the mantra remained the same: adapt and overcome problems. Remarkably the team finished with no injuries and as one cohesive unit, despite suffering sleep deprivation as they cycled through the night on riding bikes which needed constant tuning.
The video can be viewed here:
Text RAAM to 70900 to donate £5 to the team or leave your donation and message of support at www.bmycharity.com/battlebackraam2012 You can also keep up with the latest news from the team via Twitter (@BB_RAAM2012), Facebook and atwww.helpforheroes.org.uk/events/battle-back-raam.html
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Donate by texting HERO to 70900, you will be charged £5 plus your standard network rate (a minimum of £5.00 will go to H4H). Mobile Text Telephone helpline – 01494 750 500
See the donations page here: http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/donations.html
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