Godspeed: The Race Across America

Godspeed: The Race Across America is an inspiring documentary that visualizes the awe-inspiring journey of two cyclists, Brad Cooper and Jerry Schemmel, who take on a grueling bicycle race across America known as RAAM (Race Across America). The film was released in 2016, and it showcases Brad and Jerry's months of preparation and endurance in this journey of a lifetime. Godspeed successfully portrays the literal and metaphorical peaks and valleys traversed by these men, providing a gripping account of their exploits.

Under the direction of Martin Butler and Mary Nighy, the film takes audiences on an unforgettable cycling adventure through some of the most diverse and exquisite landscapes of America and does so using captivating visuals and excellent camera work. The movie's exploratory narrative keeps the audience on their toes as they get a first-hand experience of some of the most challenging terrains and weather conditions that a cyclist can go through. The storytelling, combined with the raw human spirit on display, makes for riveting cinema.

Brad Cooper and Jerry Schemmel are the two athletes who devote themselves to this endurance test. Brad, an endurance athlete, is known for his never-say-die attitude and is a health and wellness expert. He is the CEO of US Corporate Wellness and co-host of the Catalyst Health, Wellness & Performance Coaching podcast. On the other hand, Jerry is a well-known sports commentator for a Colorado-based Major League Baseball team.

In Godspeed: The Race Across America, these two passionate individuals show their commitment to pushing their physical and mental boundaries and revealing to the audience what it takes to embark on such endurance-demanding journeys. They participate in this race not just for themselves but for an orphanage project for Haiti, demonstrating their shared belief in giving back to society.

The Race Across America is deemed one of the most challenging races all over the globe. Unlike the Tour de France, the RAAM is not a stage race; cyclists ride continuously, stopping only for short periods. Therefore, the cyclists must prepare for it down to the very last detail. Brad and Jerry, along with their support team, show viewers that while the riders are the stars, these endeavors are indeed collective efforts.

The film does a commendable job of capturing the cyclists' rigorous training process and planning stages before they embark on the race, fostering an appreciation for the intense planning and preparation that goes into such undertakings. It also brings out the importance of teamwork and the critical role the support team plays in the race, adding another layer to the narrative.

During the race, Brad and Jerry cover approximately 168 hours non-stop, averaging less than 2 hours of sleep per day across three time zones, extreme heat, and mountain terrains - a testament to their sheer passion and mission. The audience can feel the tension as they navigate sleep deprivation, physical exertion, and eating on the run while combating the changing weather conditions and terrains of the 3000 miles stretch.

Godspeed: The Race Across America is a compelling plunge into the world of endurance cycling. It's not just about sports but also about the determination, strength, and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It delicately weaves in elements of passion, teamwork, and philanthropy into its narrative, making it a must-watch for both sports enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

The film showcases how determination and endurance shoos despair, and even in the toughest times, the human spirit survives. Godspeed is a beautiful manifestation of how we can push our boundaries and accomplish seemingly insurmountable challenges when we decide to press on. This film is a must-watch for anyone seeking to push their limits, witness the beauty of resilience, and explore the thrilling world of endurance races.