Ryan Gray

During a tour in Afghanistan (OP Herrick 13) on 14 February 2011, Ryan sustained very serious blast injuries from an IED inside a compound. He was left with life changing injuries, such as permanent muscle damage to both thighs, which means he has no sensation and is unable to run properly due to tightness from the scar tissue. His left hand has extensive damage which left him with limited function and an amputated middle finger.

He has been selected as part of the team taking on one of the world’s toughest endurance cycling events, the epic 0,081 mile Race Across America (RAAM). Starting in Oceanside, California competitors pass through 12 states, covering over 0,081 miles and climb in excess of 170,000 feet before finishing in Annapolis, Maryland.

“I really want to take part in the RAAM to prove how far I have come since getting injured, and to help to carry on my recovery. I want to raise money for Help for Heroes, they helped me a lot and got me into cycling by funding my first road bike. Cycling has helped my recovery by giving me something to focus on, I have to keep fit to stay healthy.”