The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA) is celebrating a major milestone in 2026 - and they’re bringing in one of Iowa cycling’s most influential voices to help mark the occasion.

Matt Phippen, Director of RAGBRAI, will be the featured speaker at the RRVTA 2026 Annual Banquet on Saturday, April 11, held at Country Lane Lodge in Adel, Iowa.

As the RRVTA celebrates 20 years of volunteer-led support for one of Iowa’s most iconic trail systems, Matt will offer behind-the-scenes insights into RAGBRAI, the communities that power it, and how cycling continues to position Iowa as a national leader in bicycle tourism.

More Than a Ride: The Power of RAGBRAI

For many riders, RAGBRAI is a weeklong adventure across Iowa. But behind the scenes, it’s also a massive logistical effort - and a powerful economic engine.

Matt will dig into:

• What really goes into the cost of a RAGBRAI wristband

• How those dollars flow back into Iowa towns, infrastructure, and tourism

• The partnerships between communities, volunteers, sponsors, and organizations that make the ride possible

• How trails like the Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT) serve as year-round tourism assets well beyond RAGBRAI week

From small towns to statewide impact, RAGBRAI continues to be a case study in how cycling can drive visitation, local spending, and community pride - values that align closely with the mission of the RRVTA.

Celebrating 20 Years of the Raccoon River Valley Trail Association

The RRVT is one of Iowa’s most beloved trail systems, and its success is rooted in two decades of dedicated volunteer leadership. From trail maintenance and advocacy to events and education, the RRVTA has played a critical role in making the trail a destination for locals and visitors alike.

This banquet isn’t just a celebration - it’s a reflection on how grassroots trail organizations and marquee events like RAGBRAI work together to strengthen Iowa’s cycling ecosystem.

• Ticket information will be released in February 2026

Whether you’re a longtime RAGBRAI rider, a trail advocate, a volunteer, or simply someone who believes in the power of cycling to connect communities, this is shaping up to be a night worth putting on your calendar.

Stay tuned to BIKEIOWA for ticket details and additional banquet updates as they roll out