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WHY RAAM?

Unlike the moon, deepest ocean or war torn, off limits parts of the world, it is with the right support, planning and hard work that this race is an achievable goal for any age, gender or handicap.

RAAM is a toughie, and what better place to show that older people can achieve, than on what is said to be the toughest cycling event.  

As a team of 4 called JSNT Legends and take part in the Race Across America (RAAM) which is considered the hardest endurance cycle race in the world. The cut-off time for teams to cycle 3,000 miles, in relay format, from the West coast to East coast of the United States is just 9 days. 

We will be pushed to our limits and tap into our inner strengths to clearly show that menopause is no obstacle to remaining mentally and physically strong and perhaps is vital to the journey through menopause and after – stay healthier longer.  

Women are showing their strength across sports, including winning mixed gender cycling events outright, not just the women category. Our mission is embracing this and inspire women to be and stay active, especially over the age of 45.

WHY IS ENCOURAGING ACTIVITY IN PEOPLE OVER 45 SO IMPORTANT? THE RESEARCH

Research shows that fit and active women over 45 cost the NHS* less through lower disease, mental health issues and being active parts of the community longer. NHS Digital in 2020 reported the cost of £1.56bn attributed to female A&E admissions (45%), £15.5bn for female attendance in patient care (52%) and £5.8bn for female outpatient treatment (53%). Distributions of cost across age groups indicate a marked higher cost for women aged 75+ in A&E compared to men. Possible reasons include an increase in falls and related fractures. Building fitness and strength from perimenopause is known to improve bone strength as women age and could contribute to reduced healthcare costs. Link.  

As we get older it can not only be harder to stay fit but to stay socially connected. Charities such as Silverfit provide platforms to get and stay active in a safe, social environment at local levels, addressing both physical and mental Peri-menopausal, menopausal and post-menopausal health.  

The percentage of women in 50-64 and 65+ age groups in employment in the UK is growing annually. Retention of knowledge and skills from these valuable age groups can be increased through better health and fitness later in life. 

*NHS = National Health Service of the United Kingdom 

RAAM 

RAAM FACTS

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Annapolis, MD

Oceanside, CA

•  Widely considered to be the hardest supported endurance cycle race in the World
•  A non-stop cycling time trial
•  West coast to east coast across the USA
•  Climbing over the Continental Divide and the Appalachian Mountain Range
•  3000+ miles in a 4-person relay format in under 9 days
•  Current record holder of Oldest Female Finisher: Nancy Guth, aged 72, RAAM 4- person finisher 2022

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