After an off year for Iowa’s premiere bicycling event, RAGBRAI Ride Director, Dieter Drake, says his team is moving full-steam ahead on planning for 2021.
With COVID still a factor, there will be some subtle differences this year focusing on safety and health. However, there is a lot of enthusiasm among cyclists and the host communities. Drake says a new idea has been developed since he joined the team about a year and a half ago, with the marketing team and staff members launching the RAGBRAI Roadshow last fall.
There are four pre-RAGBRAI events planned with the crew heading to Carroll for an April 24 ride. This joint effort acts as a fundraiser in support of the Sauk Rail Trail, starting at 1 p.m. at Kerp’s Tavern and the Carroll Brewery.
There is no registration required, however participants will need to either possess a Sauk Rail Trail season pass or purchase a day pass. Drake says the ride itself will take only a couple of hours.
These Roadshows will also help Drake’s team plan for future RAGBRAIs.
The event is open to all ages and is another great way for people to get some time in the saddle before RAGBRAI. According to Drake, another event created in the past year aids with training for the July 25 through July 31 ride.
Live music will feature Corey Waller and Neil Anders at Kerp’s Tavern and Ethridge Netz at Carroll Brewing Company. Local sponsors of the Roadshow include the Sauk Rail Trail Association and teams: Stray, Spin, K’moniwannaleiya.
