RAGBRAI riders kick off day one of ride across Iowa

SERGEANT BLUFF, Iowa (KTIV) - RAGBRAI XLIX is officially underway as the riders embarked on the first part of their bike adventure across the state of Iowa early Sunday morning.

Riders were up and at it before the sun on Sunday morning as they embarked on the start of the 460-mile bike journey. Day one calls for an early wake-up call to pack up campsites, then it’s time to hit the road to start the 53.2 mile journey to Ida Grove, Iowa. Day one also saw 2,545 feet of climbing.

“I’m excited. It’s beautiful out, and I got a cup of coffee so I feel fine,” said Michael Moore, a rider from Kansas City, KS.

A group of riders were on the road by 6 a.m., enjoying an Iowa sunrise and getting a head start before the heat. For most riders, it’s not about the miles, but the experience along the way.

“Just the experience of stopping in all the towns, and all the people that are around, and being with family and stuff. So that’ll be fun,” said Laura Fisher, an 8-year RAGBRAI rider from Kansas City, KS.

The riders journeyed through Bronson, Anthon, and Battle Creek before arriving to Ida Grove, the first overnight stop since the host town of Sergeant Bluff.

On the road, you’ll find a mix of experienced pros, as well as first-time riders.

“Oh it’s so fun. I never imagined anything like this would come from biking,” said Brody Crawford, a first-year rider from Springboro, OH.

53.2 miles later, and the riders started trickling in to Ida Grove and were greeted with a warm welcome. After arriving, the riders are able to grab some food, hydrate, and reflect on the best part of the ride.

“Man, it’s fantastic. Blue skies, rolling green hills, fantastic people. Can’t say enough about it,” said Chris Davis, a first-year rider from Columbus, OH.

The rest of the day is spent re-grouping, and preparing to do it all over again on Monday.

“Pitch a tent, catch up with my people. I’ll find some local flavor... some corn, some beer. Yeah, I’ll be alright,” said Davis.

It took just about six hours for the riders started to start arriving in Ida Grove. They’ll pitch their tents, get some food, and get ready to start again on Monday. Day two calls for a 71.2 mile ride to Pocahontas, Iowa.