RAGBRAI: Be There Or Be Square

Have you ever heard of RAGBRAI? I may have mentioned it in a blog past but, if not, I'd like to throw out some more information. The letters are an acronym for the Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. It's just that, a bike ride across Iowa beginning on the western side of the state and ending on the eastern portion.
Every year a different route is set up. It's tradition that those planning on doing the whole route, on average 472 miles, dip their back wheels in the Missouri River and their front wheels in the Mississippi upon completion.
The ride was initiated by two columnists from the Des Moines Register in 1972. The highlight that year was a fella named Clarence Pickard. He was 83 years old and rode the state on a ladies bike and sporting a pith helmet and long sleeved shirt. A legend was born. Any Iowa reader can correct my history of the event since I've never done it before. My thought is around 10,000 bikers participate but I might be off on this. I know it's a lot.
If you think Iowa is flat you don't know its geography. There are rolling hills, river valleys and, in summer, more oppressive heat and humidity than imaginable. In Iowa in July try taking a deep breath. Imagine clamping your nostrils shut with a clothespin. Nothing happens. Panic sets in and you search for an air conditioner and put your face next to the box hoping for arctic air. If you want to lose weight in a hurry walk to your mailbox in the front yard. In the old days we used a folded up newspaper for a fan----and thought we had it made. Iowa in July is like living in Arizona except it's not a dry heat. Iowa has the same temperature as Phoenix but the humidity is 100%. Women don't buy designer clothes. The sweat has to be washed out five times a day.
Over the years riders, most who camp out, have been subjected to massive thunderstorms, lightening and an occasional tornado. And yet, they persevere. The route is planned out months ahead so communities can accommodate the onslaught of visitors. Economically, it adds to the coffers and it's a reason to party, Iowa style; beer, corn dogs, brats, baked beans(no soybeans)and more beer.
This year Lance Armstrong is doing the ride. The reason I promote the event for 2011 is because one of the stops will be in my hometown of Boone, Iowa. So, if you happen to live in another state(I can tell since a map of my site lets me know I have readers in the lower 48 plus Alaska) cinch up your boot straps, pardners aznd pardnerettes, and make your way to the hub of Central Iowa(excluding Des Moines, Ames, etc.)
Keep your eyes posted for the magical sign as you enter town on Highway 30 south of town: "Boone---Home of MJ Hawkeye".
The ride takes place from July 24 to July 30. You won't be able to ride this year but one can watch the bikers as they slog along county roads; sort of like attending a NASCAR race.
Try and get to Boone.It's an interesting community with generous and friendly citizens. As I used to tell my high school students: "See ya' around if ya' don't turn square".