The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, known as RAGBRAI, reached its penultimate day with riders making the 84.8-mile journey from Ottumwa to Mount Pleasant. The event, which began in Glenwood and will end in Burlington, covered a hilly route that bypassed the Corridor this year. Thousands of cyclists enjoyed the hospitality of towns like Fairfield and Mount Pleasant, where they rested and enjoyed live music before continuing their journey.
Holly Frary of Mount Pleasant, a first-time RAGBRAI participant, trained for five months and logged 1,200 miles to prepare for the event. She expressed an increased appreciation for her home state of Iowa and the camaraderie she felt with fellow riders. Despite the challenging terrain and long distances, Frary found support from local stands offering refreshments like pickle juice and electrolytes to keep riders going.
The event drew riders from all over, including Randy Giehls from Orlando, Florida, who proudly displayed pins commemorating his 20 RAGBRAI rides. Riders shared stories of their experiences on the road, highlighting the sense of community and shared passion for cycling that brings them together. Frary identified the mental challenge of the long rides, especially on the days with high elevations, as a significant aspect of the event.
As RAGBRAI participants prepared for their final ride to Burlington, they reflected on the journey and the connections made along the way. The event continues to be a popular celebration of biking and Iowa’s landscape, bringing together riders of all backgrounds to experience the state in a unique and challenging way.
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