Race Across America Returning to Effingham

The 2016 Race Across America is getting underway, and Effingham will again be a Time Station along the route.

The 3,000-mile bicycle race from Oceanside, California to Annapolis, Maryland began for solo riders on Tuesday and will begin for team riders Saturday. Team racers have a maximum of nine days to complete the race, though most finish in about 7-1/2 days. Teams will ride 350-500 miles a day, racing non-stop. Solo racers have a maximum of 12 days to complete the race. 

This year's race should be interesting, as there are no previous winners in the men's solo division, although four riders have finished second.

RAAM Time Station 37 will be located at Effingham High School from Tuesday, June 21 through Friday, June 24. Organizers are in need of people to work two- to four-hour shifts. The time station is staffed continuously from the arrival of the first rider to the departure of the last RAAM participant. If you're not able to work a shift, stop by the time station to meet RAAM participants from around the world. In 2014, there were riders from 20 different countries.

A solo rider is typically supported by a staff of eight to 12. A team support staff could have as many as 20 people. Many participants utilize local businesses for supplies and services such as food and drink establishments, pharmacies, bike shops, RV repair facilities, laundromats, restaurants and motels.

Organizers typically have snacks and drinks available at the time station. The riders and support staffers are allowed to use the football facilities at Effingham High School.

A reminder that riders will be coming into Effingham along Route 40 from Altamont, and will depart Effingham along Route 33 to Dieterich and Newton.

If you would like to help at the time station or in other ways, phone Mike Tipton at 217-246-1205 or 217-857-6235.