Director PABLO DURANA (US 2023) 89 min
The Race Across America (RAAM) is a grueling 12-day, 3,082-mile bike race from California to Maryland. Riders combat physical and mental breakdowns, severe sleep deprivation, harsh weather, and hallucinations. In a normal year, 50% of the participants don’t finish. But André Kajlich aims to be the first double amputee to complete this arduous endeavor on an adapted bike that lets him pedal with his arms. It takes three years and four attempts for Kajlich to qualify for RAAM, while he battles self-doubt as well as his wife’s concerns about the toll of this punishing race. What will happen if he injures himself again? Pablo Durana’s directorial debut explores Kajlich’s seemingly superhuman achievements, while also providing insight into his troubled past and struggles to overcome addiction. Throughout, his enduring spirit rises to challenges many others consider impossible, offering inspiration to pursue life’s passions despite the obstacles.