A SOLDIER who had both legs blown off by a bomb in Afghanistan is taking part in cycle race across America.
On Saturday, Staff Sergeant Steve Arnold, who lives in Colchester, set off as part of a team of eight wounded servicemen competing in the 3,051 mile race.
Sgt Arnold will be using a hand bike for the challenge after an IED exploded taking both his legs in April last year while he was carrying out search operations in Afghanistan.
The team, supported by Help for Heroes, is made up of four double amputees who will complete the race on a hand bike and four upright cyclists as well as an 18 strong support crew made up of mechanics, physios, medics, drivers and navigators.
The riders will cycle non-stop over 3,051 miles, climb up to 170,000ft, through 12 states with the aim of completing it in just eight days.
The team are raising money for Help for Heroes and to donate £5 text RAAM to 70900.
Donations are also accepted via www.bmycharity.com/battlebackraam2012
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