Nothing better than a little pool side after a hot ride

ALTOONA – RAGBRAI riders entering Altoona, this afternoon congregated toward the community’s aquatic center for a refreshing dip after a steamy ride.

The pool’s mushroom like, waterfall feature was the most popular with cyclists. They use the heavy water pressure as a massage technique on their sore shoulders and backs.

“We came out here to cool our body temp,” cyclist Jim Riley said. “I’m from Arizona and this is hotter.”

This is Riley’s first time riding on RAGBRA. The Arizona native said he and his cousin, Sean Riley, 50, of North Carolina, stopped at every over night spot’s community pool – though Altoona’s is the nicest so far, he added.

“We rode straight here and are staying until they close,” Jim Riley said.

The two cousins, first time riders,  said RAGBRAI has really impressed them so far.

“I’ve only got one complaint,” Sean Riley said. “Turn the heat down!”

That’s what the pool’s for.

Mike Foote, the Director of Aquatics in Altoona said the pool had about 450 occupants, most of them riders just after 2:30 p.m., this afternoon.

“It’s a good day. The people are pretty relaxed right now,” Foote said.

Lonnie Wenthe, the Assistant Director of Aquatics, said RAGBRAI has really brought the community together and it’s been really neat t see everyone work as one.

“Altoona isnt’ a small town anymore, it’s a city. But it still has that small town feel,” Wenthe said.

The Altoona Aquatic Center will close at 5 p.m. tonight in anticipation of the city’s live entertainment. The night’s entertainment is located right behind the Aquatic Center, with the beer garden opening at 4:30 p.m. and live entertainment hitting the main stage at 5 p.m.

–Katie Stinson

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