After Support Van Crash, Recumbent Cyclist Pedals on in Race Across America

CLIFTON, N.J. - June 17, 2013 - PRLog -- World record-holding cyclist Maria Parker continues racing in the Race Across America (RAAM), a cross-country cycling event that has been called the world's most grueling endurance event by Discovery News – after her support van is rear-ended by a driver who was texting near Tuba City Arizona June 13. Two back up bikes were destroyed and the support van badly damaged. Parker was momentarily classified as a "DNF" - did not finish - but was later reinstated and allowed to continue on.

Since the accident, Parker has made up time and is gaining on the other solo female rider.

The 50-year old athlete and mother of 4 entered the race – which will be her first solo RAAM - in an effort to raise money for research to find a cure for brain cancer. She decided to enter the race after her own sister, Jenny Mulligan, was diagnosed with terminal Stage IV glioblastoma in October of 2012.

"Other initiatives have made a difference in cancer research. For example, breast cancer isn't necessarily the death sentence that it used to be, thanks in part to Susan G. Komen for the Cure," says Parker. "With 3000 Miles to a Cure, we want to do the same thing for brain cancer. We are not wavering in our dedication to the cause."

Parker's initiative, named 3000 Miles to a Cure, has chosen to donate all their proceeds to Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure (ABC2). Founded in 2001 in honor and celebration of Dan Case, ABC2 partners with leading entrepreneurs, scientists and researchers to find a cure for brain cancer.

Interested race fans can keep up with her location and other details of the race at http://www.3000milestoacure.com/.

Race Across America (RAAM), is one of the most highly respected endurance sports events in the world. Outdoor Magazine calls RAAM the “world’s toughest sporting event”. Parker will begin the race in Oceanside, California, and will climb over 170,000 vertical feet and ride over 3,000 miles to Annapolis, Maryland, over the course of about 10 days. RAAM is 1000 miles longer than the Tour de France, has 50% more climbing, and the top racers finish in about half the time. Since 1982, only 31 women have finished the race.

Interested readers can find out more information about 3000 Miles to Cure at 3000milestoacure.com/ (http://www.3000milestoacure.com/).