03 RAGBRIA Day 1
RAGBRAI Route Day 1
Double Dip
We set off at 7:30 AM but it’s a ride to the river, first. The traditional start, curiously, is to dip a rear wheel in the Missouri River then in 7 days, dip your front wheel in the Mississippi River. We needed tradition so off to the river. Terri, our new friend we met last night was with us, she missed the truck so is carrying all her own things. A pretty big load that she’s not used to. It was 8:00 when we rolled up the highway and only 65 degrees. The day stayed decent temp wise. The route according to the map is 68 1/2 miles. We can do it.
This first stage is supposed to be the most difficult as hills go. Our friend 
Sheila will start at the half way point trying not to agitate her torn Achilles. Guess what, it is hilly. We rode hard, had to wait at times for Terri. We stopped for cold drinks and watched the crazies drink and dance. Onward, we pressed to the half way point and stopped for Pasta, Pastafarian, pretty good but a half hour in line to get it. Onward, to another little town, stopped at a beer booth, passed on that but had Cola and Gatorade. We decided to ride the final 23 miles without stop. Told Terri we’d wait in town but that didn’t work. Our Talleyrand campsite is through town we chose to ride on.
Set the tent for the first time in at least 6 years. Tough to remember. The crowd is very familiar with each other. We’re strangers. As the evening wore on, we became less so. Nice folks. We drank wine and chatted then needed food. Farmer John, our host took us back to town. We walked the streets trying to find a restaurant. All had waits of at least 45 minutes. Bought turkey sandwiches from a vendor, pretty good. Sat in a doorway and chatted with other cyclists as we ate. John picked us back up. It’s now 11:06 PM here and we’re headed to the tent. Good night sweet friends.
