Pippa Middleton, sister of the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton, is racing across America on a bicycle along with brother James Middleton. The event–called Race Across America–involves a 3,000 mile journey that starts in Oceanside, California and ends in Annapolis, Maryland. The pair–along with several of their friends–started on their journey Saturday.

“On 14th June, my brother and I, along with six friends will be setting off on a West to East Coast Race Across America (RAAM). This relay cycling event spans 3,000 miles, 12 states and 88 counties. We are aiming to complete this non-stop challenge in eight days, riding between 350 and 500 miles a day,” Pippa shares online.

“Shortly after this, we will be heading over to Istanbul to take on the Bosphorus Cross-Continental Race. This 6.5km historical swim crosses two continents – Europe to Asia, across one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. We are taking on these two overseas sporting challenges to raise money for two charities that are very close to our hearts,” she added.

About 2 hours till the teams start the race! Who's ready?!? #RAAM #RAAM2014 #raceacrossamerica

— Race Across America (@RAAMRaces) June 14, 2014

Pippa and her group are raising funds to support educational funds for children all around the world as well as funds for the British Heart Foundation. Pippa Middleton was recently named as the new ambassador for this charity.

A champion effort from British #PippaMiddleton. @LandRover proud to be supporting Duchess' sister on charity bike ride @TheBHF

— Land Rover (@LandRover) June 16, 2014

“We’re passionate about raising awareness of this killer disease and money raised from these challenges will go towards funding the British Heart Foundation’s life-saving heart research. The other charity we’re supporting is the Michael Matthews Foundation. Mike tragically died descending the summit of Mount Everest. The Foundation helps to provide education to children all over the world. Mike’s brother James, is part of our team,” Pippa writes online.

This is quite a noble undertaking as well as one that requires diligence and an amazing amount of physical strength and stamina. The group Pippa Middleton and her brother are part of will bike as a relay team so that not every member is riding the entire time.

It will be fun to learn more about Pippa Middleton’s biking endeavors and to hear how long it takes her and her team to reach Annapolis. Kate Middleton is likely keeping abreast of her sister’s travels and cheering her on from afar.

Image via YouTube