Buzz for ride builds at expo

Bicyclists took it relatively easy Saturday, exploring the RAGBRAI Expo on Saturday in Sioux City ahead of a 70-plus-mile day Sunday with three-quarters of a mile of climb.

Buzz for the 43rd Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa built up on a 90-degree Saturday afternoon in Sioux City with vendors spread out over the Tyson Events Center parking lot, which bustled with live music, food, friends, family and of course, a lot of bicycles.

Cyclists have traveled from all over the country for RAGBRAI. Julie Hill, 64, of Marshalltown, and her family use the event for a bit of a family reunion. Hill’s niece and nephew traveled more than 20 hours to ride in RAGBRAI.

Kathy Briggs said she’s more than ready to take on her 12th year of riding the entire week.

“Oh I’m ready to go,” said Briggs, 69, of Marshalltown. “I’ve got 10 grandkids. I have to keep doing these to keep up with them.”

Briggs, decked out in her biking clothes and equip with a helmet mirror to keep track of bikers behind, said her favorite part is meeting new people and getting the exercise.

Related Articles