Imagine cycling 3,000+ miles across America, through deserts and mountains, as a disabled veteran. Ed Abdella and his team didn’t just imagine it—they conquered it! Their incredible journey isn’t just about winning a race; it’s about finding purpose and honoring fellow service members. What drives a person to push such limits?
In a monumental feat of human spirit and physical endurance, Mississippi’s own Ed Abdella, a dedicated teacher and decorated veteran, has etched his name into the annals of athletic history by becoming the first Mississippian to conquer the grueling 2025 Race Across America. This remarkable achievement, completed alongside his extraordinary team of fellow disabled veterans, transcends mere sport, embodying a profound narrative of resilience and purpose on an epic cross-country journey.
The Race Across America, often heralded as “the world’s toughest race,” challenges cyclists to traverse an staggering 3,061 miles from Oceanside, California, to Atlantic City, New Jersey. Unlike traditional stage races, RAAM is a continuous, non-stop event where teams push their limits against time, sleep deprivation, and extreme environmental conditions. It demands not only immense physical prowess but also an unbreakable mental fortitude, making its completion a rare and celebrated accomplishment in the world of endurance cycling.
Abdella’s journey to this pinnacle of endurance racing is particularly poignant. As a former soldier, he carries the indelible marks of service, including a disability from herniated disks and other ailments. Yet, for Abdella, the intense suffering often associated with such a demanding race transforms into a unique form of “soothing, relaxing therapy,” allowing him to channel pain into purpose and proving that no physical limitation can diminish his indomitable spirit on the open road.
He was not alone in this monumental undertaking. Abdella was a vital member of the “Rusty Dogs of War,” an exceptional team that not only secured first place in their category and third overall but also proudly stood as the only team entirely comprised of disabled veterans. Their collective participation shone a powerful spotlight on the capabilities and unwavering resolve of those who have served, transforming the race into a platform for advocacy and shared triumph, particularly in the realm of veteran mental health awareness.
For these veterans, including Abdella, endurance cycling offers a profound form of catharsis. It is a rigorous, cleansing journey that quiets the doubts about self-worth and helps process the profound losses and experiences of military service. As Abdella eloquently stated, “We might have lost our identity for a time, but we come together to honor the soldiers who fought for this country… We do these races publicly to remind everyone of the 22 soldiers lost every single day to suicide,” underscoring the team’s larger mission beyond the finish line.
The spirit of camaraderie and mutual support proved as crucial as physical training. Caleb Cline, the team’s crew chief, played a pivotal role in Abdella’s transformation, urging him to “leave [his demons] out in the desert.” This poignant moment marked a turning point, fostering a deep bond between teammates who understood each other’s struggles and commitments, building a foundation of trust and encouragement that propelled them through the most challenging segments of the Race Across America.
The team battled through extreme heat in the desert, punishing climbs in the Appalachian mountains, torrential rain, and unexpected detours. Each rider, including those utilizing adaptive bikes like recumbents and hand bikes, contributed to the relentless “leap-frog” relay, riding for up to 29 hours before a brief rest. This grueling schedule, coupled with the ever-present demands of the road, highlights why a mere 33% of entrants typically complete this legendary race, making the “Rusty Dogs of War” victory an even more remarkable testament to their collective grit.
Abdella’s nine years of dedicated training culminated in this historic victory, showcasing an inspirational story of perseverance against overwhelming odds. His team’s success in the 2025 Race Across America serves as a beacon of hope and a powerful message for all veterans, demonstrating that life after service can still be filled with purpose, achievement, and profound connections. Indeed, these Mississippi athletes and their teammates are living proof that the pursuit of happiness is not only a right but a journey that can be conquered, mile by mile, despite any physical or mental challenges.
