January 19, 2005 -The Insight Race Across America (RAAM) is pleased to announce a two-hour NBC Sports airing of the 2004 race on Saturday, January 22, 2005, 2.30 p.m. – 4.30 p.m. ET (check local listings for variations).

Now in its 24th year, RAAM has worldwide recognition beyond the wildest dreams of the race’s founders. As it approaches its quarter-century milestone, the race is gradually becoming an international tradition, a “cannot miss” event for the top ultra-endurance athletes and adventurers the world over.

The two-hour show was produced by Crystal Springs Productions, which is owned by veteran NBC broadcaster Jim Lampley. Lampley commented: “I’ve always felt this is the ultimate American trip. Now we have a great opportunity to share it with millions of Americans who have never really seen it, Pacific to Atlantic across the broad backs of three thousand miles of roads, from the inside out, the way we see it on RAAM. The name alone still give me chills, has for twenty-five years: The Race Across America. There’s only one.”

A total of 25 camera operators were embedded with the RAAM riders and teams during their crossing of America, resulting in an up-close-and-personal view of the riders as they battle the course and their rivals, and search for their deepest reserves of strength and courage. With an attrition rate of 50% among the solo riders, finishing alone is a big victory. The drama focuses on the controversial struggles in the solo division, between Slovenia’s Jure Robic and San Diego’s Mike Trevino, and of the neck and neck race in the 4-person team division between Team Action Sports of Bakersfield, California, and Team Vail/Go Fast from Colorado. Also told is the extraordinary and inspirational story of the 70+ age group 4-person team called the Grand Pac Masters, which rode the 2,958 mile route in under 8 days.

The 2005 Insight Race Across America starts in San Diego on June 19th and ends in Atlantic City on June 28th. The planned 3,000 mile route passes through California, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illiniois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey, and includes about 150,000 feet of climbing. Up to 150 cyclists from 15 nations are expected to participate. For more information, visit www.raceacrossamerica.org.