Being There

What it felt like to crew for India’s best ultra cyclist in the world's toughest race.

- Shail Desai

The mention of a visit to New York City excited an old mate.

"I was there last month, and I saw the musical Monsoon Wedding off-Broadway. You should go."

"Err, it's going to be a work trip."
"Sure, you can take time off and watch it one evening."

"No time off. My friend is part of a bicycle race that runs across America. I'll be accompanying him in a car during the ride."

"Wow, a road trip through America!"
"It's going to be hectic. I'm joining a team helping him during the 4800 km race. So, it won't be possible to even stop at a scenic spot, let alone go sightseeing."

"Well, there's the thrill of driving the miles at least."

"Not really. We go at about 30 kmph."

"And why exactly did you sign up for something like this? It sure sounds damn boring!"

Why did I sign up for it? Because in the world of ultra cycling, this certainly counts as a very noble deed. And damn boring, it most certainly isn't.

For perspective, participating in Race Across America (RAAM) is the equivalent of cycling from Srinagar to Kanyakumari, which is around 3,610km, and then turning around and riding to Hyderabad, which is another 1200 km.

All this in under 12 days. 

There are only a few cyclists in the world who are crazy enough to sign up for the pain involved. And some outliers always look forward to breaking their previous time records.

My friend Kabir Rachure belongs to the latter. He comes from a country where ultra-cycling is still nascent. He’s a humble ambassador of a sport that few understand and even fewer support. Yet, he wants India to be on the map someday in his sport.

Now, if he could do with some help to achieve his dream, wouldn’t you go?