BIKEIOWA NOTE: This is a great article showcasing all the elements of the 50th Anniversary ride (wow!) and what hurdles are coming for future years. We are already looking forward to next year!!
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After days of long rides through oppressive heat and a final overnight capped by a violent thunderstorm that sent riders scurrying for shelter, the world's largest, oldest annual recreational bicycle tour ended its 50th year in time-honored fashion Saturday.
Kurt Allen, who had driven from Newburyport, Massachusetts, for his first RAGBRAI, lined up with other riders on a Davenport boat ramp to dip his bike tire in the Mississippi River, marking the conclusion of his ride. After getting just four hours of sleep because of Friday night's storm, he was happy to finish.
"It's emotional, Allen said as cheering spectators welcomed the riders. "It's a big accomplishment."